The First Reported Case of California Encephalitis in More Than 50 Years
2001

First Reported Case of California Encephalitis in Over 50 Years

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Bruce F. Eldridge, Carol Glaser, Robert E. Pedrin, Robert E. Chiles

Primary Institution: University of California, Davis

Hypothesis

What is the cause of the recent case of California encephalitis?

Conclusion

The patient's infection was likely due to exposure to mosquitoes near his home.

Supporting Evidence

  • The case represents only the fourth reported instance of California encephalitis.
  • The patient had a rise in antibody titer between acute and convalescent-phase serum samples.
  • Exposure to mosquitoes is the most likely route of infection.

Takeaway

A man got sick from a rare virus carried by mosquitoes, and this is the first case reported in a long time.

Methodology

The patient's serum samples were tested for antibodies using neutralization tests.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

The patient was a 65-year-old man from Marin County, California.

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