Adenovirus Type 4 Outbreak in U.S. Army Trainees
Author Information
Author(s): K. Mills McNeill, Rose M. Hendrix, Jane L. Lindner, F. Ridgely Benton, Susan C. Monteith, Margaret A. Tuchscherer, Gregory C. Gray, Joel C. Gaydos
Primary Institution: Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center, Fort Gordon, Georgia, USA
Hypothesis
The suspension of adenovirus vaccination will lead to an increase in adenovirus type 4-associated acute respiratory disease among military trainees.
Conclusion
The outbreak of adenovirus type 4-associated acute respiratory disease among trainees was linked to the suspension of vaccination.
Supporting Evidence
- An epidemic of adenovirus type 4-associated acute respiratory disease occurred after vaccination was suspended.
- 66.1% of hospitalized trainees tested positive for adenovirus type 4.
- The outbreak lasted from May to December 1997, ending when vaccination resumed.
Takeaway
When soldiers stopped getting their adenovirus vaccines, many got sick with a virus that made them cough and have fevers.
Methodology
Surveillance of soldiers with fever and respiratory symptoms, followed by virus isolation and identification.
Limitations
Patients admitted on weekends were not included in the study.
Participant Demographics
38.2% of the trainees were women, with a mean age of 19.7 years.
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