Rotavirus.
Rotavirus is the leading cause of nonbacterial gastroenteritis in young children and may infect neonates, older children, and adults as well. A large number of serogroups and types complicates the study, epidemiology, diagnosis, and prevention of rotaviral illness. Currently, routine diagnostic methods are satisfactory only for group A rotaviruses, and most commercially available kits in widespread use detect only this serogroup. Rehydration therapy and electrolyte management remain the primary treatment modalities. Recent vaccine developments offer the promise of a reduced burden of the viral pathogen worldwide.
Steele
J C
JC
Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, USA. jsteele@mail.mcg.edu
D005759:Gastroenteritis / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D012401:Rotavirus / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D012400:Rotavirus Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy / Q000821:virology*