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Prevalence and pathogenicity of WU and KI polyomaviruses in children, the Netherlands

Marieke M van der Zalm1, John W A Rossen, Bart E van Ewijk

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Respiratory Diseases, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital at University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands. m.m.vanderzalm@umcutrecht.nl

Emerging Infectious Diseases
|November 4, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Human polyomaviruses WU and KI were detected in Dutch children. These viruses were found in children with respiratory symptoms and sometimes persisted long-term, even when no other pathogens were identified.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Pediatric Respiratory Infections

Background:

  • Human polyomaviruses are common viruses.
  • Their role in pediatric respiratory illness requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and persistence of WU and KI polyomaviruses in children.
  • To explore the association of these viruses with respiratory symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • A longitudinal study was conducted in the Netherlands between 2004 and 2005.
  • Polyomaviruses WU and KI detection was performed in children.

Main Results:

  • WU polyomavirus was detected in 44% of children with respiratory symptoms.
  • KI polyomavirus was detected in 17% of children without respiratory symptoms.
  • Both viruses were detected long-term in some children, and in some symptomatic children, no other respiratory pathogen was found.

Conclusions:

  • WU and KI polyomaviruses are prevalent in children.
  • These viruses may play a role in pediatric respiratory conditions.
  • Further research is needed to understand the clinical significance of polyomavirus infections in children.

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