Circulation of 3 Lineages of a Novel Saffold Cardiovirus in Humans
2008

Circulation of 3 Lineages of a Novel Saffold Cardiovirus in Humans

Sample size: 844 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Drexler Jan Felix, de Souza Luna Luciano Kleber, Stöcker Andreas, Almeida Patrícia Silva, Ribeiro Tereza Cristina Medrado, Petersen Nadine, Herzog Petra, Pedroso Célia, Huppertz Hans Iko, da Costa Ribeiro Hugo Jr., Baumgarte Sigrid, Drosten Christian

Primary Institution: Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil

Hypothesis

Saffold virus may be the first human cardiovirus species.

Conclusion

The study found that Saffold-like viruses circulate in humans and are genetically diverse.

Supporting Evidence

  • Six cardioviruses were identified in patients under 6 years of age.
  • Viral loads ranged from 283,305 to 5,044,412,175 copies/g of stool.
  • Co-infections occurred in 4 of 6 children with Saffold virus.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new virus called Saffold virus in kids with stomach problems, and it seems to be spreading around the world.

Methodology

The study used broad-range nested reverse transcription–PCR to screen stool samples from patients with gastroenteritis.

Limitations

The study did not establish a direct disease association with Saffold virus.

Participant Demographics

Patients included children and adults from Germany and Brazil, with a focus on those with gastroenteritis.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.19

Statistical Significance

p=0.19

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1409.080570

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