Prevalence of antibodies against respiratory viruses in children of Koulikoro (Mali).

The prevalence of antibodies to viruses associated with respiratory illnesses (influenza, corona, R.S., adeno, parainfluenza Mycoplasma pneumoniae) has been investigated in 119 children under 3 years of age (Koulikoro region Mali) and 50 persons 15-19 years of age (Bamako/Mali). In the surveillance period (March 1982-September 1982) an outbreak of respiratory disease in association with RS virus took place. A rise of CF titer has been found in 90.8% of the children; 59.1% of them presented a fourfold or greater increase of titer. The GMT values rose from 1:7 to 1:48. Concerning influenza viruses a higher incidence of positive reactions has been observed only for H3N2 viruses. A fourfold CF rise of titer has been observed for adenovirus and mycoplasma pneumoniae in 3 cases each, for parainfluenza type I and III in 2 cases each, and for parainfluenza II in 1 case. In persons 15-19 years of age the incidence of positive CF reactions was relatively high (68%-98%), but the GMT values were moderate (1:12-1:25). These data confirm that the frequency of viral respiratory diseases is the same in tropical countries as in countries with a temperate climate.