Rotavirus infection in adults

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Rotavirus is a leading cause of gastroenteritis in infants and young children globally.
• Its significance as a pathogen in adult populations has been historically underestimated.
• Adult rotavirus infections can range from asymptomatic to severe, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase clinician awareness of rotavirus as a cause of gastroenteritis in adults.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of rotavirus pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and epidemiology in adults.
• To discuss current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, emphasizing supportive care.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on rotavirus in adult populations.
• Information was gathered on clinical manifestations, transmission routes, and epidemiological patterns.
• Current management strategies and prevention methods were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Rotavirus infection in adults presents with symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping, or can be asymptomatic.
• Transmission occurs via the fecal-oral route, with common settings including endemic disease, outbreaks, and travel.
• Limited specific diagnostic tools and treatments are available for adult rotavirus cases, with supportive care being the mainstay.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians should include rotavirus in the differential diagnosis for adults presenting with gastroenteritis.
• Understanding the epidemiology and clinical spectrum of rotavirus in adults is crucial for appropriate management.
• Further research into diagnostics and targeted therapies for adult rotavirus infections may be warranted.