Infection with Chikungunya virus in Italy: An outbreak in a temperate region
Autor(es): Rezza G, Nicoletti L, Angelini R, Romi R, Finarelli A C, Panning M, Cordioli P, Fortuna C, Boros S, Magurano F, Silvi G, Angelini P, Dottori M, Ciufolini M G, Majori G C, Cassone A
Resumo: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which is transmitted by Aedes spp mosquitoes, has recently caused several outbreaks on isl-s in the Indian Ocean - on the Indian subcontinent. We report on an outbreak in Italy. After reports of a large number of cases of febrile illness of unknown origin in two contiguous villages in northeastern Italy, an outbreak investigation was done to identify the primary source of infection - modes of transmission. An active surveillance system was also implemented. The clinical case definition was presentation with fever - joint pain. Blood samples were gathered - analysed by PCR - serological assays to identify the causal agent. Locally captured mosquitoes were also tested by PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of the CHIKV E1 region was done. Analysis of samples from human beings - from mosquitoes showed that the outbreak was caused by CHIKV. We identified 205 cases of infection with CHIKV between July 4 - Sept 27, 2007. The presumed index case was a man from India who developed symptoms while visiting relatives in one of the villages. Phylogenetic analysis showed a high similarity between the strains found in Italy - those identified during an earlier outbreak on isl-s in the Indian Ocean. The disease was fairly mild in nearly all cases, with only one reported death. This outbreak of CHIKV disease in a non-tropical area was to some extent unexpected - emphasises the need for preparedness - response to emerging infectious threats in the era of globalisation.
Imprenta: The Lancet, v. 370, n. 9602, p. 1840-1846, 2007
Identificador do objeto digital: 10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61779-6
Descritores: Chikungunya virus - Pathogenesis ; Chikungunya virus - Infectious diseases ; Chikungunya virus - Viral infections ; Chikungunya Virus - Virus ; Chikungunya virus - Transmission ; Chikungunya virus - Chikungunya fever ; Chikungunya virus - Epidemiology ; Chikungunya virus - Public health
Data de publicação: 2007
