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Detection and characterization of human rotavirus among children with diarrhoea in Botswana
M Kasule1, T K Sebunya, B A Gashe
1Institute of Health Sciences, Gaborone, Botswana.
Insights
This study detected human rotavirus in Botswana children, identifying common G1P[8] and G1P[6+8] strains causing diarrhea. Molecular characterization revealed prevalent Group A rotavirus strains in infants under two years old.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrheal disease in infants and young children globally.
- Limited data exists on circulating rotavirus strains and their molecular epidemiology in Botswana.
- Understanding local rotavirus strains is crucial for developing effective prevention and control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and molecularly characterize human rotavirus strains in children with diarrhea in Botswana.
- To determine the prevalence of rotavirus and identify common genotypes circulating in the study population.
- To provide baseline data for rotavirus vaccine implementation and surveillance in Botswana.
Main Methods:
- Collection and analysis of 249 stool samples from children with diarrhea in Botswana (1999-2001).
- Detection of rotavirus antigen using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and confirmation by electron microscopy.
- Molecular characterization including double-stranded RNA electrophoresis, VP7 (G) and VP4 (P) genotyping, and subgrouping.
Main Results:
- Group A rotavirus was detected in 17% (43/249) of samples, predominantly in infants (< or =2 years).
- The most common VP7 genotype was G1 (59%), with P[6] and P[8] being the most frequent VP4 genotypes.
- The predominant rotavirus strains identified were G1P[8] and G1P[6+8], indicating common causes of diarrhea.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first report of human rotavirus detection and molecular characterization in Botswana.
- The identified rotavirus strains, particularly G1P[8] and G1P[6+8], are significant contributors to childhood diarrhea in the region.
- Findings highlight the need for rotavirus surveillance and vaccination programs in Botswana.
Abstract:
This study reports the detection, for the first time, of human rotavirus in stools of children and the molecular characterization of isolated circulating strains in Botswana. We collected 249 stool samples between 1999 and 2001 from children with diarrhoea in three health districts of Botswana and examined them for the presence of rotavirus antigens and particles. Group A rotavirus antigen was detected in 43 of 249 (17%) of the samples tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Of the 43 children shedding rotaviruses, 37 (86%) were infants < or =2 years of age. The presence of rotavirus particles was also confirmed by direct electron microscopy. The characteristic 11 segments of the double-stranded RNA mobility pattern of rotavirus were demonstrated by polyacrylamide electrophoresis in 20 of 43 (47%) of the rotavirus-positive samples. The predominant electrophoretic pattern detected was the long (L) electrophoretype 14 of 20 (70%) followed by the short (S) electrophoretype five of 20 (25%). One strain had a mixed (L/S) pattern. Of the 26 samples subjected to subgrouping by enzyme immuno assay, eight were typed as subgroup-II specific and seven were subgroup I. The predominant VP7 genotypes detected were G1 (59%). Two mixed strains of G1 + G3 (5%) and G1 + G2 (5%) were also detected. VP4 genotypes in circulation were: P[4] (5%), P[6] (33%) and P[8] (33%). Mixed P-types P[4 + 6] (5%) and P[6 + 8] (18%) were also detected. Rotavirus strains G1 P[8] and GI P[6 + 8] were the most common cause of diarrhoea in our study area.
