Abstract

PUPO-ANTUNEZ, Maritza et al. Serological study carried out in Cuban localities where confirmed Western Nile virus infection is present. Rev Cubana Med Trop [online]. 2011, vol.63, n.3, pp.227-230. ISSN 0375-0760.

Introduction: First infected cases caused by West Nile virus were reported in Cuba in 2004. Objective: to monitor and learn about the prevalence of the West Nile virus in those areas with confirmed cases. Methods: the study was conducted in Jatibonico municipality and in the city of Sancti Spiritus. A total number of 14 persons, 8 horses and 41 birds were researched to detect antibodies to flavivirus and specific antibodies to West Nile virus. Results: the presence of specific antibodies to West Nile virus was confirmed in 4 samples of sera from birds and in 4 from horses. One person was confirmed as one case of asymptomatic West Nile virus infection. Conclusions: the presence of specific antibodies to West Nile virus in birds, horses and persons residing in areas where there are confirmed cases showed that a local amplification cycle had been established in Cuba before this study.

Keywords : serology; humans; horses; birds; West Nile virus infection.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )