Enterovirus (PCR)

Swab (respiratory), sputum, bronchial lavage

Enteroviruses are a group of viruses (including coxsackieviruses, echoviruses, rhinoviruses, polioviruses and enterovirus types A, B, C, and D) that primarily infect the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system. These viruses are highly contagious and can spread through various routes, including direct contact with infected individuals, contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, and through respiratory droplets.

Enteroviruses can cause a wide range of illnesses, ranging from respiratory infections to more serious infections like meningitis, encephalitis and myo-/pericarditis. Most enterovirus infections resolve on their own without specific antiviral treatment.

The most well-known disease which is caused by members of this virus group is hand-foot-and-mouth disease, which typically affects infants and young children and causes symptoms such as fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks. It is primarily caused by coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71.