Reflecting on the 1998 enterovirus outbreak: A 25-year retrospective and learned lessons

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) infections pose a major public health threat in the Asia-Pacific region.
• EV-A71 can lead to severe and potentially fatal neurological complications, including aseptic meningitis, acute flaccid paralysis, and acute transverse myelitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the molecular virology, epidemiology, and recombination events of EV-A71.
• To examine the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of EV-A71 central nervous system (CNS) infections.
• To discuss diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis for EV-A71 infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on EV-A71.
• Analysis of clinical and neurological manifestations of EV-A71 infections.
• Examination of molecular processes and recombination events related to EV-A71.

Main Results:

• EV-A71 infections present with diverse clinical and neurological signs.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management, with supportive care being the primary treatment modality due to the absence of specific antiviral drugs.
• Prognosis varies based on infection severity, with potential for long-term neurological sequelae.

Conclusions:

• EV-A71 remains a significant threat to public health in the Asia-Pacific.
• This review synthesizes current knowledge to aid in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of EV-A71 infections.
• Further research is recommended to develop effective treatments and management strategies for EV-A71 infections.