Severe complications of enterovirus or human parechovirus infection
This BPSU study investigated severe complications of enterovirus (EV) or human parechovirus (HPeV). It intended to improve our knowledge of the age-specific incidence, clinical presentation and management, as well describe the survival and rates of long-term complications of severe EV/HPeV infections at 12 months.
Overview
Enterovirus and human parechovirus are two related viruses that commonly cause mild, self-limiting illnesses in children, mainly flu-like syndromes or diarrhoea and vomiting. Rarely, however, these viruses can cause very severe infections including meningitis, encephalitis, myocarditis, hepatitis and septic shock. These severe conditions can lead to permanent damage to the brain and spinal cord, liver or the heart, and even death. Our knowledge of these rare but very severe complications is very limited.
Investigators
Dr Shamez Ladhani
Public Health England
61 Colindale Avenue
London NW9 5EQ
Email: shamez.ladhani@phe.gov.uk
Duration
February 2019 – February 2020