VIRUSES IN ACUTE RESPIRATORY INFECTION IN A GENERAL COMMUNITY

The aetiology of acute respiratory infections between September 1962 and August 1963 was studied in two general practices in Cambridge. These practices were reasonably representative of the permanent community of Cambridge.

There were 592 spells of acute respiratory infection in the combined practices, representing an incidence of 11·4 spells per 100 persons. Children aged 0–4 had the highest rates (51·6 spells per 100 persons).

It was possible to establish a diagnosis in 62·5% of cases investigated. Influenza and parainfluenza infections featured prominently, being responsible between them for 46·6% of all respiratory infections investigated. From September 1962 to January 1963, parainfluenza viruses were prevalent, causing acute laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis in children (croup), and an influenza-like illness in adults. From February to April 1963, influenza A (Asian) was epidemic, a clinical diagnosis of influenza being frequently confirmed by laboratory studies at this time. There were nine cases of Eaton agent infection, seven of which had PAP, the other two being family contacts who later developed influenza-like illnesses.

Adenovirus (four cases), and RS virus (three cases) were not prevalent to any large extent in Cambridge during the survey.