Bufavirus genotype 3 in Turkish children with severe diarrhoea

A Altay1, T Yahiro2, G Bozdayi1

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey.

Insights

Bufavirus (BuV), a cause of diarrhea, was found in 1.4% of Turkish children with the condition. BuV3 strains were prevalent, showing genetic similarity to those in Asian countries.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Bufavirus (BuV) is an emerging parvovirus linked to gastroenteritis.
  • Understanding BuV epidemiology and genetic diversity is crucial for public health.
  • Previous studies have identified BuV in various global regions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of bufavirus in Turkish children experiencing diarrhea.
  • To determine if BuV is associated with severe diarrhea episodes.
  • To analyze the seasonality of BuV infections.

Main Methods:

  • Stool samples were collected from 583 children with diarrhea and 148 healthy children.
  • Bufavirus detection was performed using molecular methods.
  • Complete genome sequencing was conducted for positive BuV samples.
  • Phylogenetic analysis was used to determine genetic relationships.

Main Results:

  • Bufavirus was detected in 1.4% (8/583) of children with diarrhea; none were found in healthy controls.
  • BuV-associated diarrhea was severe and predominantly occurred during colder months.
  • Four complete BuV genomes were sequenced, revealing the presence of BuV3.
  • The identified BuV3 strains were genetically and phylogenetically similar to those found in Bhutan.

Conclusions:

  • Bufavirus is a relevant pathogen in pediatric diarrhea in Turkey.
  • BuV3 appears to be the predominant genotype circulating in the region.
  • The findings suggest BuV3 has a wider geographical distribution across Asia.