Echovirus type 13--United States, 2001

Abstract

Echoviruses constitute one of the major groups of the genus Enterovirus and are associated with illnesses including aseptic meningitis, nonspecific rashes, encephalitis, and myositis (1). Echovirus 13 is an enterovirus that rarely has been detected in the United States, accounting for only 65 of approximately 45,000 enterovirus isolates reported to CDC during 1970-2000. No associated outbreaks have been reported in this country. As of June 2001, eight state public health laboratories and one private laboratory had reported an increased number of echovirus 13 isolates to CDC, most associated with aseptic meningitis. This report summarizes echovirus 13 activity in the United States and highlights the investigation of aseptic meningitis outbreaks in Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, and Tennessee. Echovirus 13 should be considered in the diff erential diagnosis of persons with aseptic meningitis.