Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
Rapid Isolation of Human Breast Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Published on: November 14, 2025
Detection of echovirus 18 in human breast milk
Marcela V Maus1, Michael A Posencheg, Kristin Geddes
1Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
Abstract:
We detected enteroviral RNA and cultured infectious virus from a series of banked breast milk samples from the mother of an infant with neonatal sepsis; sequencing of the enterovirus isolate identified it as echovirus type 18. In this case, it is possible that enterovirus transmission occurred through the breast milk.
Insights
Enteroviral RNA and infectious echovirus type 18 were found in banked breast milk. This suggests a potential route for enterovirus transmission from mother to infant via breast milk.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neonatal Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonatal sepsis is a serious condition in newborns.
- Enteroviruses are a common cause of viral infections.
- Breast milk is generally considered protective for infants.
Observation:
- Enteroviral RNA and infectious echovirus type 18 were detected in banked breast milk samples.
- The samples were from the mother of an infant diagnosed with neonatal sepsis.
Findings:
- Sequencing confirmed the isolate as echovirus type 18.
- This provides evidence for the presence of infectious enterovirus in breast milk.
Implications:
- Enterovirus transmission to infants may occur through breastfeeding.
- Further research is needed to understand the risk and prevention strategies.
- This finding has implications for infant feeding recommendations during maternal enterovirus infections.
