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Published on: January 28, 2019

Outbreak of severe rotavirus gastroenteritis among children--Jamaica, 2003

    MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
    |November 14, 2003
    PubMed

    Insights

    Jamaica experienced a significant rise in acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases and deaths among young children in 2003. Rotavirus was identified as the cause, with better case management potentially reducing fatalities.

    Area of Science:

    • Public Health
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Pediatrics

    Background:

    • A sharp increase in acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases, hospital admissions, and deaths among children was observed in Jamaica in May 2003.
    • The Kingston and St. Andrew parish reported the highest incidence of AGE among children under 5 years old.
    • Twelve AGE-associated deaths in children under 8 years old were reported during June-July.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the etiology of the acute gastroenteritis outbreak in Jamaica.
    • To identify risk factors associated with AGE illness and mortality.
    • To recommend appropriate control measures for the outbreak.

    Main Methods:

    • The Jamaican Ministry of Health initiated an epidemiological investigation.
    • Data collection focused on case identification, risk factor analysis, and mortality assessment.
    • Preliminary findings were compiled to understand the outbreak's dynamics.

    Main Results:

    • The acute gastroenteritis outbreak was strongly associated with rotavirus infection.
    • Deaths related to AGE may have been preventable with adequate case management.
    • A need for enhanced caregiver education on AGE treatment was identified.

    Conclusions:

    • Rotavirus was the primary cause of the acute gastroenteritis outbreak in Jamaica.
    • Improved case management and caregiver education are crucial for reducing pediatric mortality from AGE.
    • Public health interventions should focus on rotavirus prevention and effective AGE treatment strategies.

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