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Viral gastro-enteritis in children in Malawi
R Pavone1, N Schinaia, C A Hart
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Liverpool.
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|March 1, 1990
Summary
This study found human rotavirus (HRV) and Astrovirus in Malawian children with gastroenteritis, with HRV being common in infants. This is the first report of HRV in Malawi and Astrovirus in Africa.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Gastroenteritis is a significant health concern in children globally.
- Viral pathogens are common causes of pediatric gastroenteritis.
- Limited data exists on viral gastroenteritis agents in Malawi and Africa.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the prevalence of viral and protozoal agents causing gastroenteritis in Malawian children.
- To report the first detection of human rotavirus (HRV) in Malawi and Astrovirus in Africa.
Main Methods:
- A 2-month survey of 186 children with gastroenteritis was conducted at an outpatient clinic in Malawi.
- Fecal samples were analyzed for viral and protozoal pathogens.
- Human rotavirus (HRV) double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) from 25 samples was analyzed using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Human rotavirus (HRV) was detected in 42% of cases, primarily in infants under 12 months.
- Cryptosporidium (9%), adenovirus (4.2%), Astrovirus (1.2%), and Norwalk-like viruses (0.6%) were also identified.
- All HRV samples exhibited the same long electropherotype, suggesting a common source or strain.
Conclusions:
- Human rotavirus (HRV) is a major cause of gastroenteritis in young children in Malawi.
- This study provides the first evidence of HRV in Malawi and Astrovirus in Africa.
- Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and impact of these viral agents.