The enteroviruses, of which there are over 70 serotypes, are RNA viruses of the Picornaviridae family and consist of the polioviruses and the non-polioviruses. The latter group includes coxsackie A and B, echoviruses and other enteroviruses. Widespread use of vaccination has resulted in elimination of the polioviruses from the Western Pacific, Americas and European Regions. On the other hand, non-polio enteroviruses are among the most common viral infections in humans. This group of viruses has a worldwide distribution but is more active in the late summer or early autumn in temperate climates.

Transmission occurs through direct contact with oral or nasal secretions of infected persons, faeces and droplets. Infants, children, adolescents and adults are all at risk; however, under 10-year olds are most likely to be infected. Most infections are asymptomatic or with only mild clinical syndromes. Symptoms include mild upper respiratory symptoms, flu-like illness with fever and muscle aches, or fever with rash. In rare instances, aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, myocarditis, pericarditis, pneumonia and paralysis may occur. Newborns who become infected may rarely develop a multi-system infection with a high fatality rate. There is at present no vaccine or no specific antiviral agents available against the non-polio enteroviruses. Treatment is symptomatic and focuses on the complications associated with infection. Prevention includes improved sanitation and general hygiene. Laboratory diagnosis traditionally relied upon isolation of the virus in culture but PCR is replacing culture particularly for CSF samples.

• Non-polio enteroviruses
  Added/updated: 5 February 2009