Non‑polio Enteroviruses in Karnataka, India: Virological surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis cases (July 1997–2013).

Background and Objectives: Since 1997 National Institute of Virology, Bangalore Unit involved in WHO's Acute flaccid paralysis paediatric cases surveillance programme to isolate and detect polioviruses. Stool samples yielded not only polioviruses but also Non-Polio enteroviruses. This report is an overview of non‑polio Enterovirus (NPEV) epidemiology in Karnataka state, India for the period of 16‑years and 6 months from July 1997–2013. Methods: A total of 19,410 clinical samples were processed for virus isolation as a part of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance for Global Polio Eradication Programme in India at National Polio Laboratory, at Bengaluru. NPEV detection was performed by virus isolation on cell culture according to World Health Organisation recommended protocols. Results: A total of 4152 NPEV isolates were obtained. The NPEV isolation rate varied from year to year but with a total NPEV rate of 21.39%. Conclusion: A seasonal variation was noted with high transmission period between April and October with peaks in June–July. The male to female ratio was 1:1.2. The isolation of NPEV decreased significantly with the increase in age. Epidemiology of NPEVs from AFP cases in Karnataka is described.

Clinical profile and outcome of Dengue fever cases.

Dengue fever is on rise globally. In India, Dengue epidemics are expanding geographically, even into the rural areas. Dengue can present with varied manifestations. The mortality rate has been brought down with high index of suspicion, strict monitoring and proper fluid resuscitation. Herewith, we are presenting clinical features and outcome of Dengue cases seen in and around Hubli (North Karnataka).

Outbreak of encephalitis in Bellary District of Karnataka & adjoining areas of Andhra Pradesh.

An outbreak of encephalitis in Bellary district of Karnataka state and adjoining areas of Andhra Pradesh which occurred during October 1986 to January, 1987, has been investigated. Out of the 219 patients reported, 110 were from Bellary district and the remaining 109 were from Anantapur and Kurnool districts of Andhra Pradesh; 131 (59.8%) were males and 88 (40.2%) females, while 192 (87.7%) patients were aged 10 yr and below. Sixty one patients died giving a case fatality rate of 27.9 per cent. Virological/serological investigations were carried out on 153 patients. Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus was isolated from the brain tissue of 2 cases. On the basis of the results of serological tests and virus isolation, a flavivirus (JE/WN/DEN) etiology could be established in 116 (75.8%) patients.