Update on nonpolio enterovirus and parechovirus infections in neonates and young infants

Abstract

Purpose of reviewTo review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment strategies of nonpolio enterovirus and parechovirus (PeV) infections, and identify research gaps. Recent findingsThere is currently no approved antiviral agent for enterovirus or PeV infections, although pocapavir may be provided on a compassionate basis. Elucidation of the structure and functional features of enterovirus and PeV may lead to novel therapeutic strategies, including vaccine development. SummaryNonpolio human enterovirus and PeV are common childhood infections that are most severe among neonates and young infants. Although most infections are asymptomatic, severe disease resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality occurs worldwide and has been associated with local outbreaks. Longterm sequelae are not well understood but have been reported following neonatal infection of the central nervous system. The lack of antiviral treatment and effective vaccines highlight important knowledge gaps. Active surveillance ultimately may inform preventive strategies.

Human Enterovirus B Is a Significant Cause of Aseptic Meningitis and Sepsis-Like Illness in Young Infants in Thailand

“…PeV are RNA viruses that also belong to the Picornaviridae family as EVs. Formerly described as echovirus 22 and 23 in the Enterovirus genus, PeV were reclassified into their Parechovirus genus based on genetic differences and biological properties [ 12 ]. PeV infections are prevalent in young children and have been associated with severe diseases such as meningitis, encephalitis, and sepsis-like illness in young infants [ 13 , 14 ].…”

Benzocaine-N-acylindoline conjugates: synthesis and antiviral activity against Coxsackievirus B3

“…The main consequences of EVI include hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD), herpangina, acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis [7]. EVI are more severe in neonates and young infants, who have a higher risk of systemic illness, including meningitis and meningoencephalitis [8][9][10]. The transmission of EVs is performed via fecal-oral and the respiratory routes.…”

Editorial: Emerging and reemerging global pediatric infectious diseases amidst vanishing pediatric infectious diseases workforce

“…Sam-Agudu et al [11] described the evolution of Mpox being a predominantly infection of children in endemic regions to now infecting adults in nonendemic regions. In the Current Opinion in Pediatrics Issue #3 in 2023, Tomatis Souverbielle et al [12] provided a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment strategies of nonpolio enterovirus (EV) and parechovirus (PeV) infections in the United States.…”