A Comprehensive Review on Human Aichi Virus.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Food Safety

Background:

• Aichi virus (AiV), a member of the Kobuvirus genus, is an emerging viral pathogen causing gastroenteritis outbreaks.
• While norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus are well-known foodborne viruses, AiV has gained attention due to recent outbreaks linked to various foods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the human Aichi virus (AiV), an emerging enteric pathogen.
• To discuss AiV transmission routes, detection methods, and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing data on Aichi virus.
• Analysis of seroprevalence studies and outbreak reports.

Main Results:

• Aichi virus (AiV) is increasingly implicated in gastroenteritis outbreaks globally.
• High seroprevalence (80-99%) in adults across multiple countries indicates extensive prior exposure.
• AiV's role in gastroenteritis may be underestimated due to association with subclinical infections.

Conclusions:

• Aichi virus (AiV) is a significant enteric agent, despite causing a low percentage of diagnosed outbreaks.
• Widespread human exposure, evidenced by high seroprevalence, warrants further investigation into AiV's clinical impact.
• Additional research is crucial to fully understand AiV's global health significance and its role in gastroenteritis.