[Hospitalizations associated with rotavirus gastroenteritis in Israel--a retrospective study]

Galia Grisaru-Soen1, Dan Engelhard, Sivan Pearl

  • 1Department of Pediatrics at Dana Children's Hospital, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel. galiag@post.tau.ac.il

Harefuah
|February 28, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Rotavirus gastroenteritis significantly impacts pediatric hospitalizations in Israel, necessitating effective vaccines. This study analyzed rotavirus-related hospitalizations in children, highlighting its burden.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Gastroenterology
  • Epidemiology

Context:

  • Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe gastroenteritis in infants globally.
  • Hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis are common in developed nations.
  • Understanding the epidemiology of rotavirus in Israel is crucial for public health strategies.

Purpose:

  • To assess the characteristics and burden of rotavirus gastroenteritis hospitalizations in children under 18 in Israel.
  • To determine the seasonal patterns and annual incidence of rotavirus-associated hospitalizations.
  • To provide data supporting the need for rotavirus vaccination programs.

Summary:

  • A retrospective review included 1719 children hospitalized with rotavirus acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in Israel (2004-2006).
  • Rotavirus accounted for 18.4% of AGE hospitalizations annually, peaking in winter months.
  • Estimated annual rotavirus hospitalizations were 3816, totaling 14,692 days.

Impact:

  • Rotavirus gastroenteritis represents a significant cause of pediatric hospitalizations and complications in Israel.
  • Findings underscore the importance of implementing safe and effective rotavirus vaccines.
  • Reducing rotavirus burden can decrease healthcare costs and improve child health outcomes.
Abstract

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