Reye Syndrome in Ohio, 1973–1977

Abstract

Some major epidemiologic features of Reye syndrome have been elucidated since the first description of this clinical entity. Multiple studies have shown an association with epidemic influenza B and endemic varicella. Little population data are available on age, sex, race, geographic distribution, and secular trends. A five-year retrospective population-based study of 190 Ohio residents diagnosed with Reye syndrome from January 1, 1973-December 31, 1977, is reported here. The temporal relationships between the occurrence of Reye syndrome and influenza B and varicella were confirmed; however, a high number of blacks and city dwellers with Reye syndrome were found in this study.

Kids versus trees: Reye's syndrome and spraying for spruce budworm in New Brunswick

“…With the finding of a lower 10-year incidence of Reye's syndrome in New Brunswick than had been previously reported in Michigan and Ohio using similar case-finding techniques [3,4], plus the absence of any apparent association with exposure, we concluded that there was no epidemic of Reye's syndrome in New Brunswick and no association between exposure to budworm spraying and its occurrence in the province. The forest industry carried out its customary spraying program in June, and the crisis was apparently settled.…”

“…Reye's syndrome had always been a rare disease, with reported annual incidence rates of one to three cases per year per 100,000 children under 18 years of age in Michigan and Ohio, where intensive case-finding techniques had been used [3,4]. The disease was known to be seasonal, with higher incidence in winter and spring, particularly during epidemics of influenza or chicken pox.…”