To identify a virus in the midst of an epidemic, scientists examine the genetic structure of the suspect. It requires only minute fragments of the virus. In the case of Coxsackie, the PCR technique is modified to accommodate its peculiar genetic configuration. In the hospital, diagnosis will be supported by an antibody count. The virus may cause liver inflammation, manifested by an increase in liver enzymes, which can aid diagnosis in adults.
Enteroviruses are everywhere.
Infection without symptoms is common. In most cases, the symptoms are so mild, so minor, that the disease is brushed off as a non-specific runny nose. In an outbreak, the chances of infection with illness rise mainly because the organism is especially potent. In Sarawak, doctors have treated some 4,000 people suspected of having the virus, in the form of hand, foot and mouth disease. This may be just the tip of the iceberg.