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Molecular epidemiology of astrovirus infection in Italian children with gastroenteritis

S De Grazia1, G M Giammanco, C Colomba

  • 1Dipartimento di Igiene e Microbiologia, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.

Clinical Microbiology and Infection : the Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
|November 4, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Human astrovirus (HAstV) causes gastroenteritis in young Italian children, with a 3.1% incidence observed. Genetic analysis revealed distinct HAstV-1 strains circulating between 1999 and 2000.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Gastroenteritis is a common illness in children.
  • The role of specific viruses like human astrovirus (HAstV) in pediatric gastroenteritis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and genetic characteristics of human astrovirus (HAstV) in gastroenteritis cases among Italian children under 2 years old.

Main Methods:

  • A 1-year study analyzed 157 gastroenteritis samples from children.
  • Viral detection and genotyping were performed on positive samples.

Main Results:

  • Human astrovirus (HAstV) was detected in 3.1% of the samples.
  • Most HAstV cases occurred in spring (March-May).
  • HAstV-1 was the predominant type, with genetic variations observed between isolates from different years.

Conclusions:

  • Human astrovirus (HAstV) is a relevant cause of gastroenteritis in Italian children under 2 years.
  • Seasonal patterns and genetic diversity of HAstV strains were identified.

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