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Updated: May 29, 2026
15:16
Detection and Genogrouping of Noroviruses from Children's Stools By Taqman One-step RT-PCR
Published on: July 22, 2012
A gastroenteritis outbreak caused by noroviruses in Greece
Apostolos Vantarakis1, Kassiani Mellou, Georgia Spala
1Environmental Microbiology Unit, Department of Public Health, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras 26500, Greece. avanta@upatras.gr
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|September 13, 2011
Summary
A 2006 Norovirus GII outbreak in Greece affected 1,640 individuals, primarily children. Investigations revealed widespread person-to-person transmission, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance of acute gastroenteritis.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- An acute gastroenteritis outbreak occurred in Northeastern Greece in June 2006.
- The outbreak prompted investigations into its cause and control measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of the gastroenteritis outbreak.
- To identify the causative viral agent and analyze its genetic characteristics.
- To understand transmission dynamics and inform public health strategies.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive epidemiological study.
- Virological characterization of fecal samples.
- Phylogenetic analysis of Norovirus GII strains.
Main Results:
- 1,640 cases of gastroenteritis were reported between June and September 2006.
- Norovirus GII strains were identified, with 15 different strains recorded.
- The outbreak's duration suggested significant person-to-person transmission, with potential initial contamination of potable water.
Conclusions:
- The outbreak was caused by Norovirus GII, with extensive person-to-person spread.
- Effective control measures require robust national surveillance for acute non-bacterial gastroenteritis.
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