Epidemiological Characteristics of Enterovirus Infection in the Far Eastern Federal District in Long-Term Dynamics (2006–2024)

Relevance. The incidence of enterovirus infections (EVI) in the Russian Federation increases in the summer-autumn period, with outbreaks occurring. The highest incidence rates recorded in the Ural and Far Eastern Federal Districts. Aim. To study the manifestations of the EVI epidemic process in the Far Eastern Federal District in 2006–2024.

Materials and Methods. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of EVI incidence in the subjects of the Far Eastern Federal District conducted using nonparametric and parametric statistical methods.

Results. In the Far Eastern Federal District a trend toward a moderate increase in EVI incidence with an increase in the registration of outbreaks has been identified. Most cases of infection occur in children aged 0 to 6 years, with children aged 1–2 years and up to one year being at risk. Increases in the incidence of enterovirus infections are largely associated with the circulation of certain enterovirus genotypes, with Enterovirus alphacoxsackie species predominating in the etiologic structure since 2017. A downward trend in the incidence of enteroviral meningitis has been observed. Among the clinical manifestations of enterovirus infections, the incidence of herpangina and exanthemic forms has increased.

Conclusions. The dominance of E. alphacoxsackie species could has lead to a change in the clinical patterns of enterovirus infections and, likely, the age distribution of affected children, as well as an increase in outbreaks. Multiple transmission routes, high contagiousness, and prolonged shedding of E. alphacoxsackie species require anti-epidemic measures not only during the seasonal but also during the interepidemic period.

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