Dados do Trabalho

Título

First Detection of Enterovirus D68 Subclade B3 in Fecal Samples in Brazil During Polio Surveillance Among Refugees

Introdução

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), belonging to the family Picornaviridae and genus Enterovirus, is a reemerging virus that has garnered significant attention since 2014 due to its association with outbreaks of severe respiratory illnesses and neurological complications such as acute flaccid myelitis in children. The global movement of populations, such as refugees, poses significant public health challenges, including the spread of infectious diseases. Afghanistan is an endemic region for poliovirus, necessitating rigorous poliomyelitis surveillance for refugees entering Brazil. Poliovirus and enteroviruses are of particular concern due to their potential for outbreaks. This study aims to monitor these viruses among refugees from Afghanistan by analyzing fecal samples, which can offer insights into the viral pathogens present in this high-risk group.

Objetivo (s)

To describe the detection and characterization of EV-D68 in stool samples from Afghan refugees into poliomyelitis surveillance program.

Material e Métodos

During 2023, a comprehensive surveillance program was performed in 529 Afghan refugees under 20 years of age, coinciding with their arrival in Brazil. Each participant provided a single stool sample to analyze for the presence of poliovirus. The samples were initially sent and processed at the FIOCRUZ Laboratory, a national reference for Poliovirus, using the viral isolation method recommended by the World Health Organization. Subsequently, samples that tested negative for poliovirus or were identified as non-polio enterovirus were further analysis at Instituto Adolfo Lutz. RT-qPCR assay was employed specifically to screen for EV-D68. Additionally, genomic sequencing of the partial VP1 region was performed on positive samples to confirmation.

Resultados e Conclusão

Of 529 stool samples from Afghan refugees, two tested positive for EV-D68 by RT-qPCR, involving two three-year-old girls. One sample confirmed EV-D68 subclade B3 by genomic sequencing; the second positive was not possible genomic sequencing. This is first description of EV-D68 in Brazil in stool samples among refugees, suggests silent circulation within the broader population. Highlighting the need for robust surveillance systems that extend beyond poliovirus, these results underscore the importance of continuous monitoring in highly mobile populations with limited healthcare, to prevent enterovirus spread and potential outbreaks.

Palavras Chave

enterovirus D68; surveillance; poliovirus; refugees.