Chikungunya infection--an emerging disease in Malaysia.

Many countries neighboring Malaysia have reported human infections by chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne togavirus belonging to the genus Alphavirus. However, although there is serological evidence of its presence in Malaysia, chikungunya virus has not been known to be associated with clinical illness in the country. An outbreak of chikungunya virus occurred in Klang, Malaysia, between December 1998 and February 1999. The majority of the cases were in adults and the clinical presentation was similar to classical chikungunya infections. Malaysia is heavily dependent on migrant workers from countries where chikungunya is endemic. It is speculated that the virus has been re-introduced into the country through the movement of these workers.

Enoxacin therapy for severe pleuro-pulmonary infections.

Enoxacin, a new 6-fluoroquinolone known to be active in vitro against most common pulmonary pathogens, was evaluated in comparison with ceftazidime, a third generation cephalosporin proven to be effective in the treatment of gram negative pneumonias. Clinical and microbiologic responses to therapy were satisfactory and comparable in both antibiotic groups. Enoxacin could be an effective alternative choice in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections caused by gram negative organisms.