LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF ENTEROVIRUS OUTBREAKS

Abstract

Human enterovirus species A to D and rhinovirus species A to C infect humans, and over 250 serotypes have been reported. Enteroviruses caused a wide range of infections including mild common cold, herpangina and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Occasionally, enteroviruses can result in more severe complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, acute flaccid myelitis and myocarditis. Emerging enteroviruses causing global epidemics are enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) and enterovirus D68 (EV-D68). Here, I will review the current laboratory diagnosis and outbreak management and areas of ongoing research for EV-A71.As enterovirus infection can be severe and associated with neurodevelopment and cognitive sequelae, a rapid identification of enterovirus types can help in better patient management. WHO guideline to clinical management and public health responses for HFMD is available. Public health interventions will be discussed. The longest enterovirus survival on fomite was by poliovirus type 1 on non-porous objects which lasted more than 60 days at cold temperature. Higher temperature and lower humidity decreased virus survival to less than 10 days. Disinfection and good personal hygiene are emphasised in guidelines from all countries to reduce the risk of enterovirus transmission. Currently, only EV-A71 vaccine is available in China, and HFMD vaccine should be developed.