Study of Enterovirus Infections, Including Echovirus 11, in Newborns in Italy Focusing on Virus Characteristics, Genome Analysis, and Clinical Impact

What this Trial Is About

Enteroviruses are a group of RNA viruses including Coxsackievirus, Echovirus, Poliovirus, and Rhinovirus types. They commonly cause mild illnesses in infants and children but can sometimes lead to serious diseases like liver failure, neurological damage, and heart problems. Recently, severe cases of neonatal Echovirus 11 infection with high fatality rates were reported in several European countries, highlighting the need for better understanding and surveillance of these infections. This research aims to develop and test methods for tracking enterovirus infections in newborns, focusing on Echovirus 11. Activities include screening newborns in intensive care for enterovirus infections, using advanced genetic sequencing to analyze virus strains, and studying viral features that may influence disease severity. The study runs from February 2026 to February 2027 and will collect data to improve detection and understanding of these infections. Participants include neonates admitted to intensive care units whose samples will be tested for enteroviruses. Researchers will estimate infection rates and perform detailed genetic and epidemiological analyses. The study seeks to identify viral variations and host factors linked to severe disease. Sample collection, genomic sequencing, and clinical data analysis are key components. The goal is to enhance knowledge for better diagnosis and management of neonatal enterovirus infections.

Neonatal Enterovirus Infections in Italy: Virological Characterization, Genomic and Clinical-epidemiological Insights on Echovirus 11