AURAK study calls for wider awareness of enteroviruses

In a ground-breaking study, researchers at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) have highlighted the significant impact of enterovirus infections on public health in the Gulf region, particularly among children, through analysis of reports of cases in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) area.

- Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter

The research investigated the characteristics of enterovirus and the mechanisms by which this virus infection leads to disease.

In addition, it presented major diagnostic tools employed in enterovirus detection.

Enterovirus and rhinovirus, also known as the common cold virus, belong to the same family of viruses that are a major cause of respiratory infections, particularly in children. The number of reported cases of enterovirus varies annually across Arabian Gulf countries. However, the reported cases demonstrate that enteroviral infections are highly common in children with serious illnesses such as brain inflammation or meningitis.