Enterovirus Respiratory Syndrome
in Greece
April 26, 2002
At this time, Health Canada is monitoring an outbreak of acute respiratory
syndrome in Greece. On April 25, 2002, the Greek Ministry of Health and Welfare,
and the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 39 cases, including 3 deaths,
of respiratory infection with pericarditis (inflammation of the protective
covering of the heart) and/or myocarditis ( inflammation or degeneration of
the heart muscle), occurring from March 1 to April 24, 2002. Specific information
related to the reported 39 cases (e.g., age and geographic area of risk) is
unavailable at this time. As a precautionary measure, the Greek authorities
closed schools to avoid large gatherings of people in enclosed spaces and
recommended good personal hygiene.
As of April 26, the Greek Ministry of Health and Welfare reported two additional
cases confirmed in adults, one from Patra and another from Larissa. The Ministry
however, reported that cases are declining.
The Greek Ministry of Health and Welfare is reporting that the initial laboratory
tests confirm that the cause of the syndrome is related to an enterovirus.
Enteroviruses are distributed worldwide. Infection is more common in socioeconomically
disadvantaged areas, especially in those where conditions are crowded and
in tropical areas where hygiene is poor. Most enteroviruses are transmitted
by the fecal-oral route. However they can also be transmitted through the
ingestion of contaminated food or water or by airborne transmission which
can cause respiratory tract diseases.
Due to the decline in reports of cases, the Greek authorities have stated
they will re-open nurseries and private educational institutions on Monday
(April 29). The Ministry continues to advise good personal hygiene.
Source: Greek Ministry of Health and Welfare
Recommendations
Health Canada strongly recommends that Canadian travellers seek an individual
risk assessment consultation with their personal physician or a travel medicine
clinic to determine their personal risks. Health Canada further reminds Canadian
travellers to practice good personal hygiene (e.g., good hand washing practices)
while travelling.
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