T. T. Pattiyakumbura1, K. R. Lankapriya2, K. Karunarathne2, N. Weerasinghe1, M. Godakanda1, C. Rangana1 and J.I Abeynayake1*

Enteroviruses are a group of small RNA viruses. With their ubiquitous nature, they cause a wide spectrum of diseases worldwide. The majority of infections can be seen in the pediatric age group. Enteroviruses usually cause mild infections but also cause severe infections including encephalitis, acute flaccid paralysis, myopericarditis, acute respiratory and gastrointestinal infection, and sepsis. Patients with impaired immunity often have severe enteroviral infections with a high case fatality rate. Clinicians should be aware of the wide spectrum of clinical diseases associated with enteroviral infections. Also, accurate and prompt diagnostic methods are important for the treatment and prevention of enteroviral infections.

Keywords : Enterovirus, pediatric age group, impaired immunity, live vaccination, the wide spectrum of diseases.

View PDF