Respiratory viruses in Jamaica: a virologic and serologic study. 1. Virus isolations and serological studies on clinical specimens

ABSTRACT

A survey of respiratory viruses and their antibodies in the Caribbean island of Jamaica has revealed that infleunza A, B and C viruses, parainfleunza type 1 and 3 viruses, respiratory syncytial virus and several types of adenovirus are causing respiratory infections in the Jamaican population. Respiratory virus infections were detected in Jamaica more frequently in the cooler months of the year, October through March, than in the warmer months. Adenoviruses were observed to be causing infections at all times of the year, but some evidence that parainfleunza type 1 infections are occurring at intervals only was obtained. Almost all infections by respiratory syncytial virus were obtained in infants and young children with severe lower respiratory tract disease.(Summary)