Adenovirus-associated acute conjunctivitis in Beijing, China, 2011-2013

Abstract

Background: Human adenovirus (HAdV)-associated acute conjunctivitis is a common infectious disease and causes significant morbidity among residents in Beijing, China. However, little is known about the epidemiology and type distribution of acute adenoviral conjunctivitis in Beijing.

Methods: Acute conjunctivitis surveillance was conducted in 18 hospitals in Beijing from July through October during 2011-2013. HAdVs were detected by PCR from eye swab and types were determined by partial hexon and fiber gene sequencing. Risk factors associated with adenoviral conjunctivitis were analyzed.

Results: Of 876 conjunctivitis cases, 349 (39.8%) were HAdV positive. HAdV detection was most common in conjunctivitis patients aged 18-40 years; patients with contact history with a conjunctivitis case; patients with specimen collected on days 4-6 post symptom onset and patients who worked in food service as catering attendants. Fifteen types were identified among adenoviral conjunctivitis cases. Five HAdV types (HAdV-4, - 37, - 53, - 64 and - 8) accounted for 81.1% of all adenoviral conjunctivitis cases. HAdV-37, - 4 and - 53 were the most common types associated with adenoviral conjunctivitis in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.

Conclusion: Multiple HAdV types were associated with acute conjunctivitis in Beijing. Predominant types associated with adenoviral conjunctivitis circulating in Beijing varied from year to year.

Keywords: Acute conjunctivitis; HAdV type; Human adenovirus.