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Published on: November 7, 2018
Viral gastroenteritis outbreaks in deployed British troops during 2002-7.
M S Bailey1, C I Gallimore, L D Lines
1Department of Military Medicine, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK. mark@ramc.org
Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps
|February 11, 2009
Summary
British troops experienced viral gastroenteritis outbreaks, primarily norovirus, in Iraq between 2002-7. Findings aid in predicting and preventing future outbreaks through targeted strategies.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Viral gastroenteritis poses a significant health risk to deployed military personnel.
- Outbreaks among British troops between 2002-7 highlighted the need for better understanding and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze lessons learned from suspected viral gastroenteritis outbreaks in deployed British troops from 2002-7.
- To inform future prevention strategies for infectious diseases in military settings.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological and laboratory data from identified outbreaks.
- Analysis of epidemic curves and PCR testing for enteropathic viruses.
Main Results:
- 10 out of 11 outbreaks (91%) had a confirmed viral cause, predominantly in Iraq (91%).
- Noroviruses accounted for 73% of identified enteropathic viruses, including novel and common strains.
- Multiple virus involvement in 50% of outbreaks suggests food or water contamination, particularly in medical units and large deployments.
Conclusions:
- Understanding outbreak dynamics aids in predicting future viral gastroenteritis.
- Findings support targeted prevention strategies for deployed forces.
- Further systematic studies are recommended to enhance understanding and control measures.
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