Detection of encephalitis-causing viruses reveals predominance of chikungunya virus in the state of Bahia, Brazil.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Encephalitis is a severe neurological syndrome for which herpesvirus and enteroviruses are the most common etiological agents. Arboviruses, a wildly diverse group of pathogens, are also critical epidemiological agents associated with encephalitis. In Brazil, little is known about the causative agents of encephalitis.

Methods

We conducted a hospital surveillance for encephalitis between 2020 and 2022. Molecular (RT-PCR and qPCR) and serological (virus-specific IgM and viral antigens) techniques were performed in cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples obtained from study participants.

Results

In the 43 participants evaluated, the etiologic agent or the presence of IgM was detected in 16 (37.2%). Nine (20.9%) cases were positive for chikungunya virus (CHIKV), t

SUBMITTER: Sampaio MPS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11183300 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature