The geometric mean titer of anti-HEV71 antibodies was significantly higher in preschool children (GMT 46.8) than in formal school-aged children (GMT 28.8, p=0.002), indicating transmission occurs largely in preschools.
Cross-Sectional (n=856)
No
HEV71 infection is common in Singapore children and is acquired largely during preschool years, suggesting that public health control measures should focus on preschool centers.
Absolute Event Rate: 46.8% vs 28.8%
p-value: p=0.002
Human enterovirus 71 has caused outbreaks in many parts of the world, especially Southeast Asia, with some fatal cases. The epidemiology of this viral infection is not well understood. We conducted a serologic survey in Singapore children, and the results indicate that infection occurs largely in preschool settings.
Ooi et al. (Sun,) conducted a cross-sectional in Human Enterovirus 71 (HEV71) infection (n=856). Preschool age (2-5 years) vs. Formal school age (6-12 years) was evaluated on Geometric mean titer (GMT) of anti-HEV71 antibodies (p=0.002). The geometric mean titer of anti-HEV71 antibodies was significantly higher in preschool children (GMT 46.8) than in formal school-aged children (GMT 28.8, p=0.002), indicating transmission occurs largely in preschools.