An algorithm for the typing of enteroviruses and correlation to serotyping by viral neutralization.

Background: Human enteroviruses (HEVs) are common pathogens which cause a broad spectrum of illnesses ranging from asymptomatic infection to acute myocarditis and aseptic meningitis. The neutralization assay for serotype determination is labor-intensive and time-consuming. There is a need for a methodology that is more rapid and widely accessible.

Creating a model program for influenza surveillance in California: results from the 2005-2006 influenza season.

Background: Influenza surveillance is valuable for monitoring trends in influenza-related morbidity and mortality. Using the 2005-2006 influenza season as an example, this paper describes a comprehensive influenza surveillance program used by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

Methods: Data collected from patients evaluated for acute respiratory illness in a given week were reported and summarized the following week, including (1) electronic hospital pneumonia and influenza admission and antiviral usage records from Kaiser Permanente, (2) sentinel provider influenza-like illness (ILI) reports, (3) severe pediatric influenza case reports (e.

Adenovirus, adeno-associated virus and Kawasaki disease.

Clinical similarities and shared seasonality suggested a relationship between adenovirus infection and Kawasaki disease. We performed adenovirus serology and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for both adenovirus and adeno-associated virus in patients with acute Kawasaki disease. No evidence was found to suggest a link between either virus and Kawasaki disease.