Nataša Berginc

Due to the high socioeconomic burden of rhinoviruses, the development of prevention and treatment strategies is of high importance. Understanding the epidemiological and clinical features of rhinoviruses is essential in order to address these issues. Our study aimed to define the seasonality and molecular epidemiology of rhinoviruses in Slovenia. Over a period of eight years, a total of 20,425 patients from sentinel primary healthcare settings and sentinel hospitals were examined for a panel of respiratory viruses in the national programme for the surveillance of influenza-like illnesses and acute respiratory infections. The patients were from all age groups and had respiratory infections of various severity. Infection with a rhinovirus was confirmed using an RT-rPCR in 1834 patients, and 1480 rhinoviruses were genotyped. The molecular analysis was linked to demographical and meteorological data. We confirmed the year-round circulation of rhinoviruses with clear seasonal cycles, resulting in two seasonal waves with peaks in spring and autumn. High levels of genotype variability and co-circulation were confirmed between and within seasons and were analysed in terms of patient age, the patient source reflecting disease severity, and meteorological factors. Our study provides missing scientific information on the genotype diversity of rhinoviruses in Slovenia. As most previous investigations focused on exclusive segments of the population, such as children or hospitalised patients, and for shorter study periods, our study, with its design, size and length, contributes complementary aspects and new evidence-based knowledge to the regional and global understanding of rhinovirus seasonality and molecular epidemiology.

Background. Non-polio enteroviruses (EVs) and human parechoviruses (PeVs) cause a wide range of human infections. Limited data on their true disease burden exist as standardized European-wide surveillance is lacking. Aims. Our aim is to estimate the disease burden of EV and PeV infections in Europe via establishment of standardized surveillance for hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and respiratory and neurological infections caused by these viruses. We will also assess the sensitivity of assays implemented in the network of participating laboratories so that all EV and PeV types are adequately detected. Plan. The European Non-Polio Enterovirus Network (ENPEN) has developed standardized protocols for a prospective, multi-center and cross-sectional hospital-based pilot study. Protocols include guidance for diagnosis, case definition, detection, characterization and reporting of EV and PeV infections associated with HFMD and respiratory and neurological diseases. Over 30 sites from 17 European countries have already registered to this one pilot study, likely to be commenced in 2022. Benefits. This surveillance will allow European-wide comparison of data on EV and PeV infection. These data will also be used to determine the burden of EV and PeV infections, which is needed to guide the further prevention measures and policies.