Related Experiment Videos
Influenza virus infections in Taiwan from 1979 to 1995
R K Tseng1, H Y Chen, C B Hong
1Natioanl Institute of Preventive Medicine, Department of Health, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
In order to understand the epidemic trends of influenza virus infection in Taiwan, 5,882 throat-swab specimens were collected from June 1979 to June 1995. Influenza virus was detected in 313 specimens including samples collected at Taichung and Tainan from 1981 to 1982. Among them, 214 isolates (68.4%) were identified as influenza virus type A, and 99 (31.6%) as type B. In the course of the surveillance, the influenza virus strain A/Taiwan 1/86 (H1N1), known as a world-wide reference strain, was isolated in April 1986. Influenza virus infection was identified throughout the year in Taiwan based on the frequency of detection of the virus. Some strains were referred to as intermediate strains in comparison with the reference strains on the basis of antigenic heterogeneity. About 80% of the isolates identified in this laboratory were from children under 12 years old. The rate of isolation of virus was about 46% during the epidemic season.
Insights
This study tracked influenza virus in Taiwan from 1979-1995, finding both type A and B viruses circulating year-round, primarily in children. The isolation of a key reference strain highlights Taiwan
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Understanding influenza virus epidemic trends is crucial for public health.
- Taiwan's long-term influenza surveillance data provides insights into viral circulation patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemic trends of influenza virus infection in Taiwan.
- To characterize influenza virus types and strains circulating between 1979 and 1995.
Main Methods:
- Collection and analysis of 5,882 throat-swab specimens from June 1979 to June 1995.
- Detection and identification of influenza virus types (A and B) and specific strains.
- Comparison of isolated strains with worldwide reference strains, noting antigenic heterogeneity.
Main Results:
- Influenza virus was detected in 313 (5.3%) specimens, with year-round circulation observed.
- Type A influenza (68.4%) was more prevalent than Type B (31.6%).
- The reference strain A/Taiwan 1/86 (H1N1) was isolated in 1986; 80% of isolates were from children under 12.
Conclusions:
- Influenza virus circulates persistently in Taiwan, with distinct epidemic seasons.
- Children under 12 represent the primary demographic affected by influenza virus infections.
- Antigenic heterogeneity among circulating strains necessitates ongoing surveillance.