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Echovirus type 13--United States, 2001
Abstract:
Echoviruses constitute one of the major groups of the genus Enterovirus and are associated with illnesses including aseptic meningitis, nonspecific rashes, encephalitis, and myositis (1). Echovirus 13 is an enterovirus that rarely has been detected in the United States, accounting for only 65 of approximately 45,000 enterovirus isolates reported to CDC during 1970-2000. No associated outbreaks have been reported in this country. As of June 2001, eight state public health laboratories and one private laboratory had reported an increased number of echovirus 13 isolates to CDC, most associated with aseptic meningitis. This report summarizes echovirus 13 activity in the United States and highlights the investigation of aseptic meningitis outbreaks in Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, and Tennessee. Echovirus 13 should be considered in the diff erential diagnosis of persons with aseptic meningitis.
Insights
Echovirus 13, a rare enterovirus, is increasingly detected in the US, primarily causing aseptic meningitis. Public health officials are investigating outbreaks, urging consideration of Echovirus 13 in differential diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Echoviruses are a major group of enteroviruses linked to various illnesses.
- Echovirus 13 is historically rare in the US, with few reported isolates between 1970-2000.
- No Echovirus 13 outbreaks were previously reported in the United States.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize Echovirus 13 activity in the United States.
- To highlight the investigation of aseptic meningitis outbreaks linked to Echovirus 13.
- To inform clinicians about Echovirus 13 as a potential cause of aseptic meningitis.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance data from CDC on enterovirus isolates.
- Reports from state and private public health laboratories.
- Investigation of aseptic meningitis outbreaks in multiple US states.
Main Results:
- An increase in Echovirus 13 isolates reported to CDC as of June 2001.
- Most identified Echovirus 13 isolates were associated with aseptic meningitis.
- Outbreaks investigated in Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, and Tennessee.
Conclusions:
- Echovirus 13 activity has increased in the United States.
- Aseptic meningitis is a key clinical manifestation of Echovirus 13 infection.
- Echovirus 13 should be considered in the differential diagnosis of aseptic meningitis.