[Incidence of rotavirus in adults with diarrhea in Asunción, Paraguay]

M Martínez1, N Fariña, M Rodríguez

  • 1Departamento de Biología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Río de la Plata y Lagerenza, Asunción (2511), Paraguay.

Insights

Rotavirus infections are common in adults, affecting 17.3% of fecal samples tested between 2001 and 2004. Unlike children, adult rotavirus cases occur year-round, suggesting it should be considered in adult diarrhea diagnoses.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Epidemiology

Context:

  • Rotavirus is a leading cause of diarrhea in young children globally.
  • Previous research has primarily focused on pediatric rotavirus infections.
  • The epidemiology of rotavirus in adult populations remains less understood.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the incidence and seasonality of rotavirus infections in adult patients in Paraguay.

Summary:

  • A study of 533 adult fecal samples from October 2001 to March 2004 found rotavirus in 17.3% of cases.
  • Rotavirus was detected year-round in adults, with no significant difference in incidence across age groups.
  • This contrasts with the distinct seasonal peak observed in children under five in Paraguay.

Impact:

  • These findings highlight rotavirus as a significant cause of adult diarrhea.
  • The study suggests rotavirus should be included in the differential diagnosis for adult diarrhea.
  • Understanding adult rotavirus epidemiology is crucial for public health strategies.

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