ROTAVIRUS

Soegeng Soegijanto
 EPIDEMOLOGY
Most human infections result from contact with
infected persons. Rotavirus (RV) infections occur in
many animal species, but transmission from animals to
humans has not been documented. However,
reassortment between human and animal rotaviruses
have occurred and can generated new serotypes.
Rotavirus in infected patients is present in high titer in
stool, which is the only body specimen consistently
positive for the virus. It is present in stool before the
onset of diarrhea, and can persist for as long as 10 days
after the onset of symtoms in normal
hosts.Transmission is presumed to be by the fecal –
oral route.
The incubation period is usually from 1 to 3 days.
CLINICAL MANIFESTATION
 Infection can result in diarrhea, usually
preceded or accompanied by emesis and low
grade fever. In severe cases, dehydration,
electrolyte abnormalities, and acidosis may
occur and result in neurologic signs. In
immunocompromised children, including those
with HIV infection, persistent infection with
manifestations of multisystem involvement can
develop.
 DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and latex
agglutination assay for group A RV antigen
detection in stool are commercially
available. Both types of assay are useful
for the detection of RV antigens during
diarrhea. However, EIAs are more
sensitive for the detection of antigen late
in the course of illness.
 TREATMENT
No specific antiviral therapy is available.
Oral or parenteral fluids are given to
prevent and correct dehydration.