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Updated: May 31, 2026
10:03
Swab Sampling Method for the Detection of Human Norovirus on Surfaces
Published on: February 6, 2017
First outbreak of norovirus in Albania
Letters in Applied Microbiology
|June 22, 2011
Summary
The first Norovirus (NoV) outbreak in Albania was caused by the GGII·4 genotype. Genetic analysis revealed unique mutations in these NoV strains compared to international variants.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Noroviruses (NoVs) are a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis globally.
- Albania has a history of various infectious disease outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the first documented Norovirus outbreak in Ballsh, Albania.
- To identify the specific Norovirus genotype responsible for the outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Collection of stool samples from affected individuals and drinking water samples from the municipal aqueduct.
- Bacteriological and virological testing of all collected samples.
- Genotyping of Norovirus isolates using molecular analysis software (ClustalV, mega 4).
Main Results:
- Ten out of 33 stool samples (30.3%) tested positive for Norovirus.
- All identified Norovirus strains belonged to the GGII·4 genotype.
- No Norovirus was detected in the five drinking water samples analyzed.
- No GGI genotype Norovirus was identified.
Conclusions:
- This study reports the first outbreak of Norovirus GGII·4 in Albania.
- Genetic analysis indicated distinct point mutations and amino acid substitutions in the Albanian strains compared to international references.
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