Epidemiology of circulating human influenza viruses from the Democratic Republic of Congo, 2015

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203995
• Publication Date: 2018-09-28T16:20:11Z
• Authors: Hugo Kavunga-Membo; Edith Nkwembe; Edgar Simulundu; Stomy Karhemere; Pélagie Babakazo; Léonie Manya; Joelle Kabamba; Emile Okitolonda; Steve Ahuka-Mundeke; Jean Jacques Muyembe
• Keywords: Zanamivir; Molecular Epidemiology

Introduction The establishment of the influenza sentinel surveillance system in Kinshasa, Bas Congo, Maniema, Katanga, and Kasai Provinces allowed generation important data on molecular epidemiology human viruses circulating Democratic Republic Congo (DRC). However, some challenges still exist, including need for extending to more provinces. This study describes pattern virus DRC during 2015. Methodology Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from January December 2015 outpatients with influenza-like illness (ILI) all hospitalized patients Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI). Molecular analysis was done determine type subtype at National Reference Laboratory (NRL) Kinshasa using real time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Analysis antiviral resistance by enzyme inhibition assay nucleotide sequencing performed Collaborating center USA (CDC, Atlanta). Results Out 2,376 nasopharyngeal patients, 218 (9.1%) positive virus. Among samples, 149 characterized as A (Flu A), 67 B B) 2 mixed infections B). Flu subtypes detected H3N2 H1N1. Yamagata strain among country. Individuals aged between 5 14 years accounted largest age group affected All found be sensitive drugs such oseltamivar, zanamivir, peramivir laninamivar. Conclusion present documented possible involvement both circulation respiratory infection certain provinces emphasises extend other a better understanding DRC. It is envisioned that would lead improved disease control patient management.