VIRAL HEMORRHAGIC-FEVER SURVEILLANCE IN KENYA, 1980-1981

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  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 35  (1) , 43-47
Abstract
Following 2 cases of Marburg virus disease in Kenya in 1980 viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance was undertaken in western Kenya. Over a 21 mo. period investigations, including virus isolation attempts, patient and contact serology, visits to areas where suspected cases occurred, interviewing family members and neighbors of suspected cases and following up any additional illnesses in these areas, were carried out. During the study 2 cases were found that were likely to have been Ebola hemorrhagic fever based on rising antibody titers or positive serology in contacts. Diagnoses of hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, bacterial septicemia or other causes were arrived at in 24 cases. No diagnosis could be made in 26 instances. Human sera (741) were tested for antibodies against Marburg, Ebola, Congo hemorrhagic fever, Rift Valley fever or Lassa fever viruses by indirect fluorescence. Eight sera were positive for Ebola virus antibodies, all of which were from suspected cases or contacts of suspected cases. Two sera were antibody positive to Congo virus and 1 had antibodies against Rift Valley fever virus. No Marburg or Lassa virus antibodies were detected.

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