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Epidemiology and burden of rotavirus-associated hospitalizations in Ferrara, Italy

G Gabutti1, M Marsella, C Lazzara

  • 1Section of Hygiene and Industrial Medicine, Department of Clinical and Sperimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.

Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene
|May 18, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) significantly impacts pediatric hospitalizations in Ferrara, Italy, incurring substantial healthcare costs. Vaccination is recommended to reduce RVGE incidence and associated expenses.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in young children worldwide.
  • Hospitalization data provides crucial insights into the burden of RVGE on healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the incidence and characteristics of rotavirus gastroenteritis hospitalizations in children in Ferrara, Italy.
  • To estimate the economic impact of RVGE-related hospitalizations.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of hospital discharge forms for children admitted to the University of Ferrara from 2001-2005.
  • Identification of cases of acute gastroenteritis and specifically RVGE using diagnostic codes and rapid screening tests.
  • Calculation of hospitalization rates, length of stay, and median costs.

Main Results:

  • 89 out of 247 children hospitalized for acute gastroenteritis tested positive for rotavirus (36%).
  • RVGE hospitalizations showed a seasonal pattern, peaking in winter and early spring.
  • The average hospital stay was 5.7 days, with median costs ranging from 1417 to 1595 Euros per case.

Conclusions:

  • Rotavirus gastroenteritis remains a significant cause of pediatric hospitalization and associated healthcare costs in the studied Italian region.
  • An effective rotavirus vaccination program has the potential to substantially decrease hospitalizations and reduce the economic burden on the healthcare system.

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