H. Peigue-lafeuille et al., Nosocomial infections due to enteroviruses in neonatal units and nurseries: a risk to take into account., MED MAL INF, 30(11), 2000, pp. 683-690
Enteroviruses can be responsible for nosocomial outbreaks in nurseries and
neonatal units, even during non-epidemic periods, from an index-patient, in
fected medical staff, or visitors. The most commonly encountered disease is
meningitis. Like pneumonia, it lengthens hospital stay. Myocarditis and se
vere generalized infections with haemorrhagic diasthesis are responsible fo
r a high mortality rate. Early diagnosis may be delayed. Hence the possibil
ity of an enterovirus infection should be systematically suspected and pros
pective investigations performed (stools, throat swab). In cases of meningi
tis, enteroviral genome detection in CSF by polymerase chain reaction allow
s for a rapid diagnosis and, in addition, a rapid alert to prevent nosocomi
al infection spreading. Extreme vigilance is required if nosocomial infecti
ons are to be prevented in nurseries and neonatal units. This includes resp
ect of strict hygiene measures, meticulous handwashing, cleaning and disinf
ection of surfaces, and efficient virucidal products. (C) 2000 Editions sci
entifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.