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Published on: July 24, 2016
AN OUTBREAK OF ASEPTIC MENINGITIS DUE TO ECHO 25 VIRUS
Abstract:
In a widespread outbreak of aseptic meningitis during the summer and early fall of 1961 in Ontario, Echo type 25 virus was found to be the predominant virus type isolated from affected patients. Recovery of Echo 25 virus in several cases from the CSF of patients strongly suggests an etiological relationship between this virus type and the illness. The causative role of the virus was confirmed by demonstration of significant immunological response in patients found to be infected with the virus. The presence of antibodies to Echo 25 virus in about 70% of meningitis patients, from whom no virus was isolated, indicates that the infection in the population of the affected areas was much more prevalent than the number of successful virus isolations would suggest. It is recommended that Echo 25 virus should be added to the series of Echo virus types capable of causing outbreaks of aseptic meningitis.
Insights
Echo 25 virus caused a widespread aseptic meningitis outbreak in Ontario in 1961. Immunological responses confirmed its etiological role, suggesting broader population infection than isolations indicated.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Aseptic meningitis outbreaks pose significant public health challenges.
- Identifying causative viral agents is crucial for understanding transmission and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the predominant virus responsible for a 1961 aseptic meningitis outbreak in Ontario.
- To confirm the etiological role of the isolated virus through immunological evidence.
Main Methods:
- Virus isolation from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of affected patients.
- Serological testing to detect immune responses to suspected viral agents.
Main Results:
- Echo 25 virus was the predominant type isolated from meningitis patients.
- Significant immunological responses to Echo 25 virus were observed in infected individuals.
- Antibodies to Echo 25 virus were present in 70% of patients without virus isolation, indicating widespread infection.
Conclusions:
- Echo 25 virus was confirmed as the etiological agent of the 1961 Ontario aseptic meningitis outbreak.
- The prevalence of Echo 25 virus infection in the affected population was likely underestimated by virus isolation alone.
- Echo 25 virus should be recognized as a cause of aseptic meningitis outbreaks.
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Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
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