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Enterovirus meningitis in Brazil, 1998-2003
Gina P L Dos Santos1, Irene Skraba, Denise Oliveira
1Laboratório de Enterovirus, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Journal of Medical Virology
|November 22, 2005
Summary
Echovirus 30 caused most enterovirus meningitis cases in Brazil between 1998-2003, leading to outbreaks and sporadic illnesses. This study highlights Echovirus 30 as the primary cause of viral meningitis in the region.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Non-Polio enteroviruses (NPEV) are a leading cause of viral meningitis, especially in children.
- Enterovirus meningitis presents significant morbidity and can lead to outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and etiological agents of enterovirus meningitis in Brazil.
- To identify the prevalence of specific enterovirus serotypes causing meningitis during 1998-2003.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 1,022 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens for enterovirus isolation.
- Identification of enterovirus serotypes through laboratory analysis.
- Surveillance for meningitis outbreaks and sporadic cases.
Main Results:
- Enteroviruses were isolated from 15.8% of CSF specimens.
- Echovirus 30 was the predominant agent, identified in 85.2% of enterovirus isolates.
- Five meningitis outbreaks were confirmed, with Echovirus 30 responsible for four.
Conclusions:
- Echovirus 30 is the most prevalent cause of viral meningitis in Brazil.
- Echovirus 30 is responsible for both outbreaks and sporadic cases of meningitis.
- Effective surveillance and identification of etiological agents are crucial for managing viral meningitis.