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Neuroinvasive arboviral disease in the United States: 2003 to 2012

James T Gaensbauer1, Nicole P Lindsey2, Kevin Messacar1

  • 1Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado; and.

Pediatrics
|August 13, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric neuroinvasive arboviral infections, primarily from La Crosse and West Nile viruses, caused significant illness and death in US children. Public health efforts focusing on vector control and surveillance are crucial for prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health and Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Arboviral infections pose a significant threat to pediatric populations, causing serious neurological conditions.
  • Understanding the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of these infections is vital for effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the epidemiological patterns and clinical syndromes of pediatric neuroinvasive arboviral infections in the U.S.
  • To analyze data from 2003-2012 to identify trends, common etiologies, and outcomes in affected children.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized data from ArboNET, the national arboviral surveillance system, for cases reported by state health departments.
  • Included children (<18 years) diagnosed with neuroinvasive arboviral infections (meningitis, encephalitis, acute flaccid paralysis).
  • Analyzed demographic, clinical, outcome, geographic, and temporal data for all reported pediatric cases.

Main Results:

  • 1217 cases and 22 deaths were reported nationwide between 2003 and 2012.
  • La Crosse virus (55%) and West Nile virus (41%) were the predominant causes.
  • Eastern equine encephalitis virus, though less frequent, had a higher fatality rate.
  • Age distribution varied by virus: La Crosse virus affected younger children, while West Nile virus was more prevalent in older children and adolescents.
  • Geographic distribution differed, with West Nile virus widespread and others more localized.

Conclusions:

  • Neuroinvasive arboviral infections represent a substantial pediatric health concern in the U.S.
  • Disease patterns are influenced by complex interactions between virus, vector, host, and environment.
  • Prevention strategies including vector control, personal protection, and blood donor screening are essential.
  • Robust surveillance is critical for informing public health actions and clinical management.
Abstract

Keywords:
United Statesarboviruseschildepidemiology

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