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Assays for the Specific Growth Rate and Cell-binding Ability of Rotavirus
Published on: January 28, 2019
Rotavirus infections with multiple emerging genotypes in Sri Lanka
Kamruddin Ahmed1, Ranjith Batuwanthudawe, T G A Nilmini Chandrasena
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Scientific Research, Oita University, Yufu 879-5593, Oita, Japan. ahmed@med.oita-u.ac.jp
Archives of Virology
|November 19, 2009
Summary
Rotavirus diarrhea remains a significant threat to children in developing nations. This study in Sri Lanka reveals comparable rotavirus infection rates in hospital and tsunami camp settings, highlighting emerging genotypes and camp children
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rotavirus diarrhea is a major cause of child mortality globally, particularly in developing countries.
- Limited studies exist on rotavirus diarrhea prevalence and genotypes in Sri Lanka.
- Tsunami-affected populations may face unique health risks, including infectious diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and genotypes of rotavirus infection among children in Sri Lanka.
- To compare rotavirus infection rates in children in a hospital setting versus those in tsunami camps.
- To identify emerging rotavirus strains and assess associated risks in vulnerable populations.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 611 children in a hospital setting and 52 children in tsunami camps in Sri Lanka.
- Collection and analysis of stool samples to detect rotavirus infection.
- Genotyping of rotaviruses using molecular methods to identify G and P types.
Main Results:
- Comparable rotavirus infection prevalence was observed: 21.9% in the hospital group and 20% in the tsunami camp group.
- The G9P[8] genotype was the most common in both groups (35% hospital, 33% camps).
- Other prevalent genotypes included G12P[8/nt], G3P[8/4/nt], and G1P[8/4], with some unique strains identified in the hospital setting. Some rotaviruses were G- and P-nontypable.
Conclusions:
- Multiple emerging rotavirus genotypes are prevalent in Sri Lanka.
- Children residing in tsunami camps are at risk of rotavirus diarrhea.
- Further surveillance and potential vaccination strategies are warranted to control rotavirus disease in Sri Lanka.
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