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Group C rotavirus infection and infiltration
Y Ishimaru1, H Nakano, M Oseto
1Ishimaru Pediatric Clinic, Matsuyama, Japan.
Abstract:
We recently found many cases of gastroenteritis involving older children and sometimes other members of their families. We suspected epidemiological infiltration of an atypical rotavirus (RV). PAGE analysis of 130 cases in 1985 and 1986 revealed that the RNA profiles were similar to that of group C RV in 12 cases. We performed IEM analysis on one of the strains and found it to be group C. The group C RV was detected for 2 months toward the end of the outbreak of group A RV infection. The ages of the group C RV infected patients were 4 years or older. We also studied the prevalence of antibody to group C in the stored sera that had been collected since 1971. Antibody was seldom found in the sera of patients under 3 years of age but it was found in 20-40% of those who were 4 years or older. The clinical manifestations of the group C RV infection were similar to those of group A, except that body temperature was slightly lower and other symptoms were generally milder.
Insights
Atypical rotavirus (RV) group C caused gastroenteritis in older children and adults. This group C RV was identified during a group A RV outbreak, showing milder symptoms and affecting those aged four and above.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Gastroenteritis outbreaks can involve atypical pathogens.
- Rotavirus (RV) is a common cause of gastroenteritis, with Group A being most prevalent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the causative agent of an unusual gastroenteritis outbreak.
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of atypical rotavirus Group C.
Main Methods:
- Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) to analyze viral RNA profiles.
- Immune electron microscopy (IEM) for viral strain identification.
- Serological analysis of stored sera to determine antibody prevalence.
Main Results:
- PAGE analysis identified 12 cases with RNA profiles similar to Group C RV.
- IEM confirmed one strain as Group C rotavirus.
- Group C RV was detected in patients aged 4 years and older during a Group A RV outbreak.
- Antibodies to Group C RV were found in 20-40% of individuals aged 4 years and older, but rarely in those under 3.
- Clinical symptoms of Group C RV infection were generally milder than Group A RV.
Conclusions:
- Atypical Group C rotavirus was responsible for a portion of the gastroenteritis cases during the study period.
- Group C rotavirus appears to primarily affect older children and adults.
- The prevalence of Group C rotavirus antibodies suggests prior or endemic circulation in the population.