Neutralization of five subgenotypes of Enterovirus 71 by Taiwanese human plasma and Taiwanese plasma derived intravenous immunoglobulin.

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) commonly occurs in children, causing hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in about 29% of patients. Studies have suggested that patients develop meningitis and encephalopathy with a mortality rate of 4-26%. EV71 subgenotypes including B4, B5, C2, C4 and C5 have caused HFMD epidemics in Taiwan.

Collaborative study to establish a proficiency panel of hepatitis B surface antigens for evaluating in vitro diagnostics.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a critical health issue. In hospitals, in vitro diagnostic devices (IVDs) are used to detect HBV infections. The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration has prepared a candidate hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) proficiency panel as an analytical standard to evaluate the sensitivity of the postmarketing surveillance of HBV IVDs.