Astrovirus associated gastroenteritis in a children's ward.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Paediatrics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Gastroenteritis outbreaks in paediatric settings pose significant public health challenges.
• Identifying the causative agents of gastroenteritis is crucial for effective control and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of astrovirus in a paediatric ward gastroenteritis outbreak.
• To determine the prevalence of astrovirus among symptomatic children and staff.
• To identify co-infections with other enteric pathogens.

Main Methods:

• Faecal samples were collected from symptomatic children, symptomatic staff, and asymptomatic children.
• Samples were tested for the presence of astrovirus.
• Co-infections with rotaviruses and pathogenic bacteria were investigated.
• Serological tests were performed to confirm astrovirus infection in adults and children.

Main Results:

• Astrovirus was detected in 17 out of 27 symptomatic children and 4 out of 14 symptomatic staff members.
• No astrovirus was found in 10 asymptomatic children.
• Of the 21 astrovirus excretors, 14 had no other detected pathogens; 7 had co-infections with rotaviruses or pathogenic bacteria.
• Serological evidence confirmed astrovirus infection in 5 adults and 2 children.

Conclusions:

• Astrovirus was a significant cause of gastroenteritis during the paediatric ward outbreak.
• Astrovirus can cause illness independently or in conjunction with other enteric pathogens.
• Routine testing for astrovirus should be considered in paediatric gastroenteritis outbreaks.