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Nosocomial conjunctivitis caused by adenovirus type 4
Abstract:
An outbreak of conjunctivitis caused by adenovirus type 4 (AV 4) occurred in hospital personnel who had contact with a patient with AV 4 pneumonia. Nine ill individuals were identified. AV 4 infection was demonstrated in all by isolation of AV 4 and/or a fourfold or greater rise in serum titer of specific neutralizing antibody. The incubation period was seven to 10 days, and the illness lasted five to seven days. Infectious virus was regularly present in the affected eyes for one week but not usually for more than 10 days after the onset of symptoms. Visual disturbance persisted for at least five months in one patient, who developed subepithelial deposits. The outbreak occurred after isolation procedures were abandoned in the care of the patient. No secondary case appeared. Isolation of patients with adenovirus pneumonia and barrier nursing are recommended as practical means of preventing nosocomial adenoviral infection and its consequences.
Insights
An adenovirus type 4 (AV 4) outbreak caused conjunctivitis in hospital staff. Implementing isolation and barrier nursing is crucial for preventing nosocomial adenoviral infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Adenovirus type 4 (AV 4) can cause pneumonia and other infections.
- Nosocomial infections pose a significant risk in healthcare settings.
- Previous isolation protocols may have been relaxed, potentially increasing transmission risk.
Observation:
- An outbreak of conjunctivitis linked to AV 4 occurred among hospital personnel.
- Nine individuals developed symptoms after contact with a patient with AV 4 pneumonia.
- Infectious virus was detected in ocular secretions for up to 10 days post-symptom onset.
Findings:
- Adenovirus type 4 infection was confirmed through viral isolation and serological testing.
- The incubation period ranged from 7 to 10 days, with illness lasting 5 to 7 days.
- One patient experienced prolonged visual disturbance due to subepithelial deposits.
Implications:
- Abandoning isolation procedures contributed to the nosocomial spread of AV 4.
- Effective infection control measures, including patient isolation and barrier nursing, are vital.
- Preventing adenoviral outbreaks protects healthcare workers and prevents patient complications.