Detection of group a rotavirus strains circulating in calves in Tunisia

Faecal samples were collected from 89 dairy calves to determine the prevalence of rotavirus infection in Tunisia and the genomic diversity of bovine rotavirus strains. After screening of all faecal samples by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, rotavirus strains were analysed by RNA polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and characterized antigenically by monoclonal antibodies to the VP6 subgroup. The VP7 genotype was determined by nested RT-PCR. Of the 89 calves tested, 27 (30%) were positive for rotavirus antigen. Four different long electrophoretypes were identified. All VP6 typeable strains carried the subgroup I specificity. G8 genotype was the most prevalent, but G6 and mixed strains G(6 + 8) were also detected.