[Rotavirus and infantile gastroenteritis in New Caledonia]

A two year study, from 1981 to 1982, has been conducted in New Caledonia to estimate the importance of rotavirus infections in children with gastroenteritis. On 497 stool specimens, 71 (14.2%) were found positive by using ELISA test to demonstrate a rotavirus infection. Male children and age group six months-two years appeared to be the most affected. Rotavirus infections were more numerous during the dry fresh season (August-November). Mixed infections with enteroviruses or enterobacteriae were found respectively in 27.8% and 9.7% of the stool specimens. Enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli were also found in 3 cases. Serological conversions were noted in 18 paired sera, obtained from 159 patients (11%).