Rotavirus infection in children in Southeast Asia 2008-2018: disease burden, genotype distribution, seasonality, and vaccination

Rotavirus outbreaks in China, 1982-2021: a systematic review

Background

Rotavirus is globally recognized as an important cause of acute gastroenteritis in young children. Whereas previous studies focused more on sporadic diarrhea, the epidemiological characteristics of rotavirus outbreaks have not been systematically understood.

Methods

This systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis standards, WANFANG, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched from database inception to February 20, 2022. We used SPSS 21.0 statistical software for data analysis, RStudio1.4.1717, and ArcGIS trial version for plotting bar graphs and maps.

Results

Among 1,596 articles, 78 were included, with 92 rotavirus outbreaks and 96,128 cases. Most outbreaks (67.39%, 62/92) occurred in winter and spring. The number of rotavirus outbreaks reported in the eastern region was more than that in the western region. Outbreaks were most commonly reported in villages (33/92, 35.87%), followed by hospitals (19, 20.65%). The outbreak duration was longer in factories and workers' living places, and villages, while it was shorter in hospitals. Waterborne transmission was the main transmission mode, with the longest duration and the largest number of cases. Rotavirus groups were identified in 66 outbreaks, with 40 outbreaks (60.61%) caused by Group B rotaviruses and 26 outbreaks (39.39%) caused by Group A rotaviruses. Significant differences were found in duration, number of cases, settings, population distribution, and transmission modes between Groups A and B rotavirus outbreaks.

Conclusion

Rotavirus is an important cause of acute gastroenteritis outbreaks in China. It should also be considered in the investigation of acute gastroenteritis outbreaks, especially norovirus-negative outbreaks.

Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic analyses of Rotaviruses Circulating in Municipal Sewage and Sewage-Polluted River Waters in Durban Area, South Africa

Globally, rotavirus continues to be the leading etiology of severe pediatric gastroenteritis, and transmission of the disease via environmental reservoirs has become an emerging concern in developing countries. From August to October 2021, a total of 69 samples comprising 48 of raw and treated sewage, and 21 surface waters, were collected from four Durban wastewater treatment plants (DWWTP), and effluent receiving rivers, respectively. Rotaviruses recovered and identified from the samples were subjected to sequencing, genotyping, and phylogenetic analysis. Of the 65 (94.2%) rotavirus-positive samples, 33.3% were from raw sewage, 16% from activated sludge, 15.9% from final effluents, and 29.0% were from the receiving river samples. A total of 49 G and 41 P genotypes were detected in sewage while 15 G and 22 P genotypes were detected in river samples. G1 genotype predominated in sewage (24.5%) followed by G3 (22.4%), G2 (14.3%), G4 (12.2%), G12 (10.2%), G9 (8.2%), and G8 (6.1%). Similarly, G1 predominated in river water samples (33.3%) and was followed by G2, G4 (20.0% each), G3, and G12 (13.3% each). Rotavirus VP4 genotypes P[4], P[6], and P[8] accounted for 36.6%, 29.3%, and 9.8%, respectively, in sewage. Correspondingly, 45.5%, 31.8%, and 13.6% were detected in river samples. The G and P genotypes not identified by the methods used were 2.1% versus 24.3% and 0.1% versus 9.1% for sewage and river water samples, respectively. Sequence comparison studies indicated a high level of nucleotide identity in the G1, G2, G3, G4, G8 VP7, and P[4], P[6], and P[8] VP4 gene sequences between strains from the environment and those from patients in the region. This is the first environmental-based study on the G and P genotypes diversity of rotavirus in municipal wastewater and their receiving rivers in this geographical region. The high similarity between environmental and clinical rotavirus strains suggests both local circulation of the virus and potential exposure risks. In addition, it highlights the usefulness of sewage surveillance as an additional tool for an epidemiological investigation, especially in populations that include individuals with subclinical or asymptomatic infections that are precluded in case-based studies.

Epidemiological Characteristics and Genotypic Features of Rotavirus and Norovirus in Jining City, 2021-2022

Diarrhea, often caused by viruses like rotavirus (RV) and norovirus (NV), is a global health concern. This study focuses on RV and NV in Jining City from 2021 to 2022. Between 2021 and 2022, a total of 1052 diarrhea samples were collected. Real-Time Quantitative Fluorescent Reverse Transcriptase-PCR was used to detect RV-A, NV GI, and NV GII. For RV-A-positive samples, VP7 and VP4 genes were sequenced for genotype analysis, followed by the construction of evolutionary trees. Likewise, for NV-GII-positive samples, VP1 and RdRp genes were sequenced for genotypic analysis, and evolutionary trees were subsequently constructed. Between 2021 and 2022, Jining City showed varying detection ratios: RV-A alone (excluding co-infection of RV-A and NV GII) at 7.03%, NV GI at 0.10%, NV GII alone (excluding co-infection of RV-A and NV GII) at 5.42%, and co-infection of RV-A and NV GII at 1.14%. The highest RV-A ratios were shown in children ≤1 year and 2-5 years. Jining, Jinxiang County, and Liangshan County had notably high RV-A ratios at 24.37% (excluding co-infection of RV-A and NV GII) and 18.33% (excluding co-infection of RV-A and NV GII), respectively. Jining, Qufu, and Weishan had no RV-A positives. Weishan showed the highest NV GII ratios at 35.48% (excluding co-infection of RV-A and NV GII). Genotype analysis showed that, in 2021, G9P[8] and G2P[4] were dominant at 94.44% and 5.56%, respectively. In 2022, G8P[8], G9P[8], and G1P[8] were prominent at 75.86%, 13.79%, and 10.35%, respectively. In 2021, GII.3[P12], GII.4[P16], and GII.4[P31] constituted 71.42%, 14.29%, and 14.29%, respectively. In 2022, GII.3[P12] and GII.4[P16] accounted for 55.00% and 45.00%, respectively. RV-A and NV showed varying patterns for different time frames, age groups, and regions within Jining. Genotypic shifts were also observed in prevalent RV-A and NV GII strains in Jining City from 2021 to 2022. Ongoing monitoring of RV-A and NV is recommended for effective prevention and control.

Molecular characterization of rotavirus indicates predominance of G9P[4] genotype among children with acute gastroenteritis: First report after vaccine introduction in Pakistan

Globally, Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old, with Pakistan having the highest rates of RVA-related morbidity and mortality. The current study aims to determine the genetic diversity of rotavirus and evaluate the impact of Rotarix-vaccine introduction on disease epidemiology in Pakistan. A total of 4749 children, hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis between 2018 and 2020, were tested at four hospitals in Lahore and Karachi. Of the total, 19.3% (918/4749) cases were tested positive for RVA antigen, with the positivity rate varying annually (2018 = 22.7%, 2019 = 14.4%, 2020 = 20.9%). Among RVA-positive children, 66.3% were under 1 year of age. Genotyping of 662 enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay-positive samples revealed the predominant genotype as G9P[4] (21.4%), followed by G1P[8] (18.9%), G3P[8] (11.4%), G12P[6] (8.7%), G2P[4] (5.7%), G2P[6] (4.8%), and 10.8% had mixed genotypes. Among vaccinated children, genotypes G9P[4] and G12P[6] were more frequently detected, whereas a decline in G2P[4] was observed. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the continued circulation of indigenous genotypes detected earlier in the country except G9 and P[6] strains. Our findings highlight the predominance of G9P[4] genotype after the vaccine introduction thus emphasizing continual surveillance to monitor the disease burden, viral diversity, and their impact on control of rotavirus gastroenteritis in children.

Incidence and seasonality of Kawasaki disease in children in the Philippines, and its association with ambient air temperature

Background

Despite an unknown cause, Kawasaki disease (KD) is currently the primary leading cause of acquired heart disease in developed countries in children and has been increasing in recent years. Research efforts have explored environmental factors related to KD, but they are still unclear especially in the tropics. We aimed to describe the incidence of KD in children, assess its seasonality, and determine its association with ambient air temperature in the National Capital Region (NCR), Philippines from January 2009 to December 2019.

Methods

Monthly number of KD cases from the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) disease registry was collected to determine the incidence of KD. A generalized linear model (GLM) with quasi-Poisson regression was utilized to assess the seasonality of KD and determine its association with ambient air temperature after adjusting for the relevant confounders.

Results

The majority of KD cases (68.52%) occurred in children less than five years old, with incidence rates ranging from 14.98 to 23.20 cases per 100,000 population, and a male-to-female ratio of 1.43:1. Seasonal variation followed a unimodal shape with a rate ratio of 1.13 from the average, peaking in March and reaching the lowest in September. After adjusting for seasonality and long-term trend, every one-degree Celsius increase in the monthly mean temperature significantly increased the risk of developing KD by 8.28% (95% CI: 2.12%, 14.80%). Season-specific analysis revealed a positive association during the dry season (RR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.11), whereas no evidence of association was found during the wet season (RR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.95, 1.27).

Conclusion

We have presented the incidence of KD in the Philippines which is relatively varied from its neighboring countries. The unimodal seasonality of KD and its linear association with temperature, independent of season and secular trend, especially during dry season, may provide insights into its etiology and may support enhanced KD detection efforts in the country.

Associations between meteorological variation and hospitalisations for rotavirus infections in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Objectives

Rotavirus (RoV) infections have emerged as a significant public health concern around the world. Understanding the relationship between climatic conditions and hospitalisations due to RoV infections can help engage effective prevention strategies. This study aims to investigate the potential associations between meteorological variability and RoV-related hospitalisations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Methods

Hospitalization data from a tertiary teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur over a twelve-year period were retrospectively collected. Concurrently, meteorological data were obtained from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) including variables of temperature, humidity, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure to further demonstrate relationship with RoV-associated hospitalisations.

Results

The results indicated positive correlations between increased rainfall, rainy days, humidity, and RoV-related hospitalisations, suggesting the influence of environmental factors on the transmission of RoV.

Conclusions

This study highlights positive associations between meteorological variations and hospitalizations for RoV infections in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Further investigations, including national-level data, are needed to deepen our understanding of these associations, particularly within the context of Malaysia and to develop targeted interventions for disease prevention and control.

Investigating the Presence of Rotavirus in Wastewater Samples of Bhopal Region, India, by Utilizing Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction

INTRODUCTION

Rotavirus-induced viral gastroenteritis outbreaks result in over two million hospitalizations globally yearly. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a crucial tool for detecting and monitoring viral outbreaks. The adoption of WBE has been instrumental in the early detection and surveillance of such viral outbreaks, providing a non-invasive method to assess public health.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to utilize droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) technology to detect and quantify Rotavirus in wastewater samples collected from the Bhopal region of India, thereby contributing to the understanding and management of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks through environmental surveillance.

METHODS

In this study, we used ddPCR to detect and quantify Rotavirus in wastewater samples collected from the Bhopal region of India. We monitored its viral presence in municipal sewage treatment plants bi-weekly using an advanced ddPCR assay. Targeting the rotavirus non-structural protein 3 (NSP-3) region with custom primers and TaqMan probes, we detected virus concentration employing polyethylene glycol (PEG). Following RNA isolation, complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis, and ddPCR analysis, our novel method eliminated standard curve dependence, propelling virus research and treatment forward.

RESULTS

Out of the 42 samples collected, a 16.60% positivity rate was observed, indicating a moderate presence of Rotavirus in Bhopal. The wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) attached to a hospital exhibited a 42.85% positivity rate, indicating the need for targeted monitoring. Leveraging ddPCR, precise quantification of rotavirus concentrations (ranging from 0.75 to 28.9 copies/µL) facilitated understanding and supported effective remediation.

CONCLUSIONS

 This study emphasizes the importance of vigilant wastewater surveillance, especially in WWTPs with higher rotavirus prevalence. The significance of ddPCR in comparison to conventional and real-time PCR lies in its superior sensitivity and specificity in detecting and quantifying positive samples. Furthermore, it can identify positive samples even in the smallest quantities without the need for a standard curve to evaluate. This makes ddPCR a valuable tool for accurate and precise detection and quantification of samples.

Multicenter Study of Rotavirus Infection, Diversity of Circulating Genotypes and Clinical Outcomes in Children ≤5 Years Old in Iran

BACKGROUND

To determine the epidemiology of rotavirus group A (RVA) infection in symptomatic children, and analyze genotype diversity in association with clinical characteristics, geographical and seasonal changes.

METHODS

The stool samples of symptomatic children 5≥ years old were collected from 5 different hospitals during December 2020 and March 2022. Rotavirus stool antigen test was done and G and P genotypes of the positive samples were determined. Associations of the infection and genotype diversity with demographical and clinical data were assessed by statistical methods.

RESULTS

RVA infection was detected in 32.1% (300/934) of the patients (Ranges between 28.4% and 47.4%). An inverse association with age was detected, where the highest frequency was measured in children ≤12 months of age (175/482, 36.3%). The infection was more frequent during winter (124/284, 43.7%) and spring (64/187, 34.2%). Children who were exclusively fed with breast milk showed a lower rate of infection (72/251, 28.6%). Among the 46 characterized genotypes (17 single- and 29 mixed-genotype infections), G1P[8] and G9P[4] were more frequently detected in children <36 (67/234, 28.63%) and 36-60 (7/24, 29.16%) months of age children, respectively. A seasonal diversity in the circulating genotypes was detected in different cities. Children with G1P[8], G1P[6], and mixed-genotype infection experienced a shorter duration of hospitalization, and a higher frequency of nausea and severe diarrhea, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study high frequency of RVA infection was detected in symptomatic children in Iran. Moreover, genotype diversity according to geographic area, seasons, age groups, and clinical features of disease was detected.

Network pharmacology, computational biology integrated surface plasmon resonance technology reveals the mechanism of ellagic acid against rotavirus

The target and mechanism of ellagic acid (EA) against rotavirus (RV) were investigated by network pharmacology, computational biology, and surface plasmon resonance verification. The target of EA was obtained from 11 databases such as HIT and TCMSP, and RV-related targets were obtained from the Gene Cards database. The relevant targets were imported into the Venny platform to draw a Venn diagram, and their intersections were visualized. The protein-protein interaction networks (PPI) were constructed using STRING, DAVID database, and Cytoscape software, and key targets were screened. The target was enriched by Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway, and the 'EA anti-RV target-pathway network' was constructed. Schrodinger Maestro 13.5 software was used for molecular docking to determine the binding free energy and binding mode of ellagic acid and target protein. The Desmond program was used for molecular dynamics simulation. Saturation mutagenesis analysis was performed using Schrodinger's Maestro 13.5 software. Finally, the affinity between ellagic acid and TLR4 protein was investigated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments. The results of network pharmacological analysis showed that there were 35 intersection proteins, among which Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Albumin (ALB), Nuclear factor kappa-B1 (NF-κB1), Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), Tumor protein p53 (TP53), Recombinant SMAD family member 3 (SAMD3), Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and Interleukin-4 (IL-4) were potential core targets of EA anti-RV. The GO analysis consists of biological processes (BP), cellular components (CC), and molecular functions (MF). The KEGG pathways with the highest gene count were mainly related to enteritis, cancer, IL-17 signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway. Based on the crystal structure of key targets, the complex structure models of TP53-EA, TLR4-EA, TNF-EA, IL-1β-EA, ALB-EA, NF-κB1-EA, SAMD3-EA, EGF-EA, and IL-4-EA were constructed by molecular docking (XP mode of flexible docking). The MMGBS analysis and molecular dynamics simulation were also studied. The Δaffinity of TP53 was highest in 220 (CYS → TRP), 220 (CYS → TYR), and 220 (CYS → PHE), respectively. The Δaffinity of TLR4 was highest in 136 (THR → TYR), 136 (THR → PHE), and 136 (THR → TRP). The Δaffinity of TNF-α was highest in 150 (VAL → TRP), 18 (ALA → GLU), and 144 (PHE → GLY). SPR results showed that ellagic acid could bind TLR4 protein specifically. TP53, TLR4, and TNF-α are potential targets for EA to exert anti-RV effects, which may ultimately provide theoretical basis and clues for EA to be used as anti-RV drugs by regulating TLR4/NF-κB related pathways.

Rotavirus in developing countries: molecular diversity, epidemiological insights, and strategies for effective vaccination

Rotavirus (RV) causes the loss of numerous children's lives worldwide each year, and this burden is particularly heavy in low- and lower-middle-income countries where access to healthcare is limited. RV epidemiology exhibits a diverse range of genotypes, which can vary in prevalence and impact across different regions. The human genotypes that are most commonly recognized are G1P[8], G2P[4], G3P[8], G4P[8], G8P[8], G9P[8], and G12P[8]. The diversity of rotavirus genotypes presents a challenge in understanding its global distribution and developing effective vaccines. Oral, live-attenuated rotavirus vaccines have undergone evaluation in various contexts, encompassing both low-income and high-income populations, demonstrating their safety and effectiveness. Rotavirus vaccines have been introduced and implemented in over 120 countries, offering an opportunity to assess their effectiveness in diverse settings. However, these vaccines were less effective in areas with more rotavirus-related deaths and lower economic status compared to wealthier regions with fewer rotavirus-related deaths. Despite their lower efficacy, rotavirus vaccines significantly decrease the occurrence of diarrheal diseases and related mortality. They also prove to be cost-effective in regions with a high burden of such diseases. Regularly evaluating the impact, influence, and cost-effectiveness of rotavirus vaccines, especially the newly approved ones for worldwide use, is essential for deciding if these vaccines should be introduced in countries. This is especially important in places with limited resources to determine if a switch to a different vaccine is necessary. Future research in rotavirus epidemiology should focus on a comprehensive understanding of genotype diversity and its implications for vaccine effectiveness. It is crucial to monitor shifts in genotype prevalence and their association with disease severity, especially in high-risk populations. Policymakers should invest in robust surveillance systems to monitor rotavirus genotypes. This data can guide vaccine development and public health interventions. International collaboration and data sharing are vital to understand genotype diversity on a global scale and facilitate the development of more effective vaccines.

Elucidating the conformational dynamics of histo-blood group antigens and their interactions with the rotavirus spike protein through computational lens

In the present study, we investigated the conformational dynamics of histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) and their interactions with the VP8* domain of four rotavirus genotypes (P[4], P[6], P[19], and P[11]) utilizing all-atom molecular dynamics simulations in explicit water. Our study revealed distinct changes in the dynamic behavior of the same glycan due to linkage variations. We observed that LNFPI HBGA having a terminal β linkage shows two dominant conformations after complexation, whereas only one was obtained for LNFPI with a terminal α linkage. Interestingly, both variants displayed a single dominant structure in the free state. Similarly, LNT and LNnT show a shift in their dihedral linkage profile between their two terminal monosaccharides because of a change in the linkage from β(1-3) to β(1-4). The molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) calculations yielded the highest binding affinity for LNFPI(β)/P[6] (-13.93 kcal/mol) due to the formation of numerous hydrogen bonds between VP8* and HBGAs. LNnT binds more strongly to P[11] (-12.88 kcal/mol) than LNT (-4.41 kcal/mol), suggesting a single change in the glycan linkage might impact its binding profile significantly. We have also identified critical amino acids and monosaccharides (Gal and GlcNAc) that contributed significantly to the protein-ligand binding through the per-residue decomposition of binding free energy. Moreover, we found that the interaction between the same glycan and different protein receptors within the same rotavirus genogroup influenced the micro-level dynamics of the glycan. Overall, our study helps a deeper understanding of the H-type HBGA and rotavirus spike protein interaction.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Human rotavirus strains circulating among children in the capital of China (2018-2022)_ predominance of G9P[8] and emergence ofG8P[8]

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to update the genetic diversity of Rotavirus (RV) infections in children under five years old in Beijing, China.

METHODS

A 5-year active hospital-based surveillance for sporadic acute gastroenteritis (AGE) from January 2018 to December 2022 in the capital of China was performed. A total of 748 fecal samples from AGE patients were collected for followed by RV antigen detection by ELSIA, RNA detection by reverse transcription PCR, G/P genotyping and phylogenetic analyzing.

RESULTS

RV antigen was detected in 11.0% of the collected samples, with 54 samples confirmed to be RV RNA positive. G9 and G8 genotypes were identified in 43 (79.6%) and 7 (13.0%) samples, respectively, all of which were allocated to P[8]. The predominant G/P combination was G9P[8] (79.6%), following by G8P[8] (13.0%), G4P[8] (5.6%) and G3P[8] (1.9%). A significant change in G/P-type distribution was observed, with the G9P[8] being predominant from 2018 to 2021, followed by the emergence of an uncommon G8P[8] genotype, which was first reported in 2021 and became predominant in 2022. Blast analysis showed that one G1 isolate had a high similarity of 99.66% on nucleotide acid with RotaTeq vaccine strain with only one amino acid difference L150V. Additionally, one P[8] isolate was clustered into a branch together with RotaTeq vaccine strain G6P[8].

CONCLUSIONS

The study reveals that G8P[8] has become the predominant genotype in pediatric outpatients in China for the first time, indicating a significant change in the composition of RV genetic diversity. The importance of RVA genotyping in surveillance is emphasized, as it provides the basis for new vaccine application and future vaccine efficacy evaluation.

Emergence of equine-like G3 and porcine-like G9 rotavirus strains in Sarawak, Malaysia: 2019-2021

Rotavirus is the leading causative viral agent of pediatric acute gastroenteritis globally, infecting mostly children 5 years old and below. Data on rotavirus prevalence in Malaysia is scarce, despite the WHO's recommendation for continuous rotavirus surveillance, and has underestimated the need for national rotavirus vaccination. Characteristics of the current rotavirus strains in Malaysia have to be determined to understand the rotavirus epidemiology and vaccine compatibility. This study sought to determine the genetic relatedness of Sarawak rotavirus strains with global strains and to determine the antigenic coverage and epitope compatibility of Rotarix and RotaTeq vaccines with the Sarawak rotavirus strains via in silico analysis. A total of 89 stool samples were collected from pediatric patients (<5 years old) with acute gastroenteritis at private hospitals in Kuching, Sarawak. Rotavirus was detected using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Positive amplicons were analyzed using nucleotide sequencing before phylogenetic analyses and assessment of epitope compatibility. Genotyping revealed G1P[8] (1/13; 7.7%), G3P[8] (3/13; 23%), G9P[4] (1/13; 7.7%), and G9P[8] (3/13; 23%), G9P[X] (1/13; 7.7%), GXP[4] (1/13; 7.7%), and GXP[8] (3/13; 23%) in samples. All wild-type Sarawak rotavirus strains, with the exception of G1, showed variations in their phylogenetic and antigenic epitope characteristics.

Rotavirus vaccination as a public health strategy to reduce the burden of hospitalization: The field experience of Italy (2008-2018)

Rotavirus (RV) infection is a leading cause of severe diarrhea among children younger than 5 years old and a considerable cause of RV gastroenteritis (RVGE) hospitalization. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of vaccination in Italy in the reduction of the burden of RV-related disease, estimating the relation between vaccination coverage and hospitalization rates. RVGE-related hospitalizations that occurred in Italy from 2008 to 2018 among children aged 0-35 months were assessed by consulting the Hospital Discharge Record database and including records whose ICD-9-CM diagnosis code was 008.61 in the first or in any diagnosis position. In the 2008-2018 period, a total of 17 535 791 at-risk person-years were considered and 74 211 (423.2 cases × 100 000 per year) RVGE hospitalizations were observed. Higher hospitalization rates occurred in males (456.6 vs. 387.9 × 100 000 per year) and in children aged 1 year (507.8 × 100 000 per year). Poisson regression analysis showed a decrease of -1.25% in hospitalization rates (-1.19% to -1.31%, p < 0.001) per unit increase in vaccination coverage. This is the first study that correlates hospitalization rate reduction with a percentage increase in vaccination coverage. Our findings strongly support RV vaccination as an effective public health strategy for reducing RVGE-related hospitalizations.

Detection and analysis of rotavirus in clinical stool samples using silver nanoparticle functionalized paper as SERS substrate

Among the different analytical techniques, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) approach is a widely used technique for the detection and analysis of various chemicals and biological samples. Present study reports a low-cost, sensitive SERS substrate that has an ability to detect rotavirus in clinical stool samples. The proposed SERS substrate has been fabricated through drop-casting of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on a printing-grade paper. Rotavirus particles were extracted from clinical stool samples. The presence of rotavirus antigen in stool samples was confirmed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and sequencing. The characteristic Raman peaks of rotavirus (RV) particles in solution were found to be significantly enhanced when Raman signals were recorded from the paper-based SERS substrates. Using the proposed SERS substrate, rotavirus samples with concentration as low as 1% could be reliably recorded by the Raman spectrometer. The paper SERS substrate reported herein is an extremely cost-efficient platform and may find applications in other research and clinical laboratories as well.

Genetic Diversity of Rotaviruses Circulating in Pediatric Patients and Domestic Animals in Thailand

Rotavirus A is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis in humans and a wide variety of animals. In this review, we summarized the information on rotavirus described in the studies in the last decade (2008 to 2021) in Thailand, including the prevalence, seasonality, genetic diversity, and interspecies transmission. The overall prevalence of rotavirus infection in humans ranged from 15-33%. Rotavirus infection was detected throughout the year and most frequently in the dry and cold months, typically in March. The diversity of rotavirus genotypes varied year to year and from region to region. From 2008 to 2016, rotavirus G1P[8] was detected as the most predominant genotype in Thailand. After 2016, G1P[8] decreased significantly and other genotypes including G3P[8], G8P[8], and G9P[8] were increasingly detected from 2016 to 2020. Several uncommon rotavirus strains such as G1P[6], G4P[6], and G3P[10] have also been occasionally detected. In addition, most studies on rotavirus A infection in animals in Thailand from 2011 to 2021 reported the detection of rotavirus A in piglets and canine species. It was reported that rotavirus could cross the host species barrier between humans and animals through interspecies transmission and genetic reassortment mechanisms. The surveillance of rotavirus infection is crucial to identify the trend of rotavirus infection and the emergence of novel rotavirus genotypes in this country. The data provide information on rotavirus infection and the diversity of rotavirus genotypes circulating in the pre-vaccination period, and the data will be useful for the evaluation of the effectiveness of rotavirus vaccine implementation in Thailand.

Increase in rotavirus prevalence with the emergence of genotype G9P[8] in replacement of genotype G12P[6] in Sabah, Malaysia

Rotaviruses are major causative agents of acute diarrhea in children under 5 years of age in Malaysia. However, a rotavirus vaccine has not been included in the national vaccination program. To date, only two studies have been carried out in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, although children in this state are at risk of diarrheal diseases. Previous studies showed that 16%-17% of cases of diarrhea were caused by rotaviruses and that equine-like G3 rotavirus strains are predominant. Because the prevalence of rotaviruses and their genotype distribution vary over time, this study was conducted at four government healthcare facilities from September 2019 through February 2020. Our study revealed that the proportion of rotavirus diarrhea increased significantly to 37.2% (51/137) after the emergence of the G9P[8] genotype in replacement of the G12P[8] genotype. Although equine-like G3P[8] strains remain the predominant rotaviruses circulating among children, the Sabahan G9P[8] strain belonged to lineage VI and was phylogenetically related to strains from other countries. A comparison of the Sabahan G9 strains with the G9 vaccine strains used in the RotaSiil and Rotavac vaccines revealed several mismatches in neutralizing epitopes, indicating that these vaccines might not be effective in Sabahan children. However, a vaccine trial may be necessary to understand the precise effects of vaccination.

The Effect of Virus-Specific Vaccination on Laboratory Infection Markers of Children with Rotavirus-Associated Acute Gastroenteritis

Objective: Rotavirus (RV) is one of the most common and important causes of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in newborns and children worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the RV vaccine on the natural history of RV infections using the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune inflammatory index (SII) as hematological indexes, clinical findings, and hospitalization. Method: Children aged 1 month to 5 years who were diagnosed with RV AGE between January 2015 and January 2022 were screened, and 630 patients were included in the study. The SII was calculated by the following formula: neutrophil × platelet/lymphocyte. Results: Fever and hospitalization were significantly higher and breastfeeding was significantly lower in the RV-unvaccinated group than in the RV-vaccinated group. The NLR, PLR, SII, and CRP were significantly higher in the RV-unvaccinated group (p < 0.05). The NLR, PLR, and SII were significantly higher both in the non-breastfed group than in the breastfed group and in the hospitalized group than in the not hospitalized group (p < 0.05). CRP was not significantly different in either the hospitalization group or the breastfeeding group (p > 0.05). SII and PLR were significantly lower in the RV-vaccinated group than in the RV-unvaccinated group in both the breastfed and non-breastfed subgroups. For NLR and CRP, while there was no significant difference according to RV vaccination status in the breastfed group, there was a significant difference in the non-breastfed group (p value: <0.001; <0.001). Conclusions: Despite the low level of vaccine coverage, the introduction of RV vaccination had a positive impact on the incidence of RV-positive AGE and related hospitalizations in children. These results showed that breastfed and vaccinated children were less prone to inflammation because their NLR, PLR, and SII ratios were lower. The vaccine does not prevent the disease 100%. However, it can prevent severe disease with exsiccation or death.

The impact of temperature and precipitation on all-infectious-, bacterial-, and viral-diarrheal disease in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

The ongoing climate change will elevate the incidence of diarrheal in 2030-2050 in Asia, including Taiwan. This study investigated associations between meteorological factors (temperature, precipitation) and burden of age-cause-specific diarrheal diseases in six regions of Taiwan using 13 years of (2004-2016) population-based data.

METHODS

Weekly cause-specific diarrheal and meteorological data were obtained from 2004 to 2016. We used distributed lag non-linear model to assess age (under five, all age) and cause-specific (viral, bacterial) diarrheal disease burden associated with extreme high (99th percentile) and low (5th percentile) of climate variables up to lag 8 weeks in six regions of Taiwan. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool these region-specific estimates.

RESULTS

Extreme low temperature (15.30 °C) was associated with risks of all-infectious and viral diarrhea, with the highest risk for all-infectious diarrheal found at lag 8 weeks among all age [Relative Risk (RR): 1.44; 95 % Confidence Interval (95 % CI): 1.24-1.67]. The highest risk of viral diarrheal infection was observed at lag 2 weeks regardless the age. Extreme high temperature (30.18 °C) was associated with risk of bacterial diarrheal among all age (RR: 1.07; 95 % CI: 1.02-1.13) at lag 8 weeks. Likewise, extreme high precipitation (290 mm) was associated with all infectious diarrheal, with the highest risk observed for bacterial diarrheal among population under five years (RR: 2.77; 95 % CI: 1.60-4.79) at lag 8 weeks. Extreme low precipitation (0 mm) was associated with viral diarrheal in all age at lag 1 week (RR: 1.08; 95 % CI: 1.01-1.15)].

CONCLUSION

In Taiwan, extreme low temperature is associated with an increased burden of viral diarrheal, while extreme high temperature and precipitation elevated burden of bacterial diarrheal. This distinction in cause-specific and climate-hazard specific diarrheal disease burden underscore the importance of incorporating differences in public health preparedness measures designed to enhance community resilience against climate change.

High Burden of Co-Infection with Multiple Enteric Pathogens in Children Suffering with Diarrhoea from Rural and Peri-Urban Communities in South Africa

Infectious diarrhoea contributes to high morbidity and mortality in young children from sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of single and multiple diarrhoeal-causing pathogen combinations in children suffering from diarrhoea from rural and peri-urban communities in South Africa. A total of 275 diarrhoea stool specimens were collected between 2014 and 2016 from Hospitals and Primary Health Care clinics. The BioFire^® FilmArray^® Gastrointestinal panel was used to simultaneously detect 22 diarrhoea pathogens (viruses, bacteria, parasites) known to cause diarrhoea. A total of 82% (226/275) enteric pathogens were detected in the stool specimens. The two most detected bacterial, viral and parasitic pathogens each included: EAEC (42%), EPEC (32%), Adenovirus F40/41 (19%), Norovirus (15%), Giardia (8%) and Cryptosporidium (6%), respectively. Single enteric pathogen infections were recorded in 24% (65/275) specimens with EAEC, and Norovirus was found in 26% (17/65) and 14% (9/65) of the specimens, respectively. Multiple enteric pathogen combinations were recorded in 59% (161/275) of the stool specimens with 53% (85/161) containing two pathogens, 22% (35/161) containing three pathogens and 25% (41/161) containing four or more pathogens. The results from this study demonstrated the complex nature of pathogen co-infections in diarrhoeal episodes which could have an impact on treatment effectiveness.

Genotype Profiles of Rotavirus Strains in Children under 5-year-old Outpatients with Diarrhea in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia

Introduction

Diarrhea is a global leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five, with rotaviruses being the most common cause. This study aimed to determine the genotypes of rotavirus in children under 5 years with diarrhea in Bandung, Indonesia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from 2014 to 2018 on 450 children under five with acute diarrhea in primary health centers in Bandung, Indonesia. Fecal samples were examined for rotavirus antigen using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method, and genotype was determined through sequencing using polymerase chain reaction. Results were statistically analyzed using Pearson Chi-square in Epi Info version 3.5.4, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results

Rotavirus was identified in 8.9% of the subjects, slightly higher in boys (n = 24, 9.8%) than girls (n = 16, 7.8%). We found that the most rotavirus positive in age group is >12-24 months and >24-59 months, while the highest percentage is at the age of ≤6 months (11.8%). Moderate malnutrition was observed in more subjects (12.8%). Vomiting was more frequent in patients positive (55%, P = 0.013) and fever was seen in 32.5% (P = 0.645). No signs of dehydration were seen in most subjects (75%), P = 0.227. Rotavirus genotypes identified were G1P[8] (18, 45%), G3P[8] (14, 35%), G3P[6] (4, 10%), G3P[9] (2, 5%), G2P[4] (1, 2.5%), and nontypeable (NT) (1, 2.5%).

Conclusions

The dominant rotavirus genotype is G1P[8], followed by G3P[8], G3P[6], G3P[9], G2P[4], and NT. The most common rotavirus positive in age group is >12-24 months and >24-59 months, while the highest percentage is at the age of ≤6 months.

Recent advances in Reovirales viruses reverse genetics research

Reovirales are segmented double-strand RNA viruses with a broad host range that pose a serious threat to human and animal health. However, there are numerous viral species within the Reovirales, some of which have lagged behind other RNA viruses in the study of their biology due to the lack of an effective reverse genetics (RG) system. The RG systems are the most powerful tools for studying viral protein function, viral gene expression regulation, viral pathogenesis, and the generation of engineered vaccines. Recently, several entirely plasmid-based RG systems have been developed for several members of the Reovirales. This review outlines the development and future direction of the RG system for the best studied Reovirales viruses.

Molecular epidemiology, genetic diversity, and vaccine availability of viral acute gastroenteritis in the middle East and North Africa (MENA) region

Acute gastroenteritis is the cause of considerable mortality and morbidity worldwide, particularly among children under five years in underdeveloped countries. Most acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases are attributed to viral etiologies, including rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, and sapovirus. This paper aimed to determine the prevalence rate of different viral etiologies of AGE in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Moreover, this paper explored rotavirus phylogenetic relatedness, compared VP7 and VP4 antigenic regions of rotavirus with vaccine strains, and explored the availability of vaccines in the MENA region. The literature search identified 160 studies from 18 countries from 1980 to 2019. The overall prevalence of rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, and sapovirus were 29.8 %, 13.9 %, 6.3 %, 3.5 %, and 3.2 % of tested samples, respectively. The most common rotavirus genotype combinations in the MENA region were G1P[8], G9P[9], and G2P[4], whereas GII.4 was the predominant norovirus genotype all of which were reported in almost all the studies with genotyping data. The comparison of VP7 and VP4 between circulating rotavirus in the MENA region and vaccine strains has revealed discrete divergent regions, including the neutralizing epitopes. Rotavirus vaccine was introduced to most of the countries of the MENA region; however, only a few studies have assessed the effectiveness of vaccine introduction. This paper provides a comprehensive update on the prevalence of the different viral agents of AGE in the MENA region.

A Clinical Nursing Care Study on the Prevalence of Rotavirus Infection and Acute Diarrhea in Vaccinated Chinese Pediatric Population from 2019-2022

Purpose

To investigate the prevalence of rotavirus infection and acute diarrhea after immunization and further assess the quality of nursing care provided by the nurses to such patients.

Methods

A total of 432 children aged 3–36 months with acute diarrhea between February 2019 and March 2022 were enrolled, and rotavirus testing was performed within 24 h using a rotavirus enzyme immunoassay kit. Clinical characteristics were evaluated, and regression analysis was performed.

Results

Eighty vaccinated children (18.5%) were confirmed to have rotavirus infection out of 432 children. The prevalence of rotavirus positivity was the highest at 20–28 months (22 cases, 24.44%) and 11–19 months age group (27 cases, 22.50%). There is a significant association between rotavirus infection and hygiene score (p = 0.009). Based on the association with quality of nursing care, rotavirus infection was association with “appropriate care” (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Rotavirus infection was strongly associated with poor hygiene score which may be due to the hygienic nature of the mother and her family. Nursing care assessments revealed a huge gap between nurses and the guardians, which reflects the behavior of Chinese nurses. Thus, an intervention is required by the policymakers for implementing effective strategies of quality nursing for the improvement of the pediatric patients with rotavirus gastroenteritis.

Global burden and trends of rotavirus infection-associated deaths from 1990 to 2019: an observational trend study

Background

Rotavirus is the leading global pathogen of diarrhea-associated mortality and poses a great threat to public health in all age groups. This study aimed to explore the global burden and 30-year change patterns of rotavirus infection-associated deaths.

Methods

Based on the Global Burden of Disease 2019 Study (GBD 2019), we analyzed the age-standardized death rate (ASDR) of rotavirus infection by sex, geographical region, and sociodemographic index (SDI) from 1990 to 2019. A Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the global trends in rotavirus infection over the 30 years, SaTScan software was used to detect the spatial and temporal aggregations, and a generalized linear model to explore the relationship between sociodemographic factors and death rates of rotavirus infection.

Results

Globally, rotavirus infection was the leading cause of diarrheal deaths, accounting for 19.11% of deaths from diarrhea in 2019. Rotavirus caused a higher death burden in African, Oceanian, and South Asian countries in the past three decades. The ASDR of rotavirus declined from 11.39 (95% uncertainty interval [95% UI] 5.46–19.48) per 100,000 people in 1990 to 3.41 (95% UI 1.60–6.01) per 100,000 people in 2019, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) (− 4.07%, P < 0.05). However, a significant uptrend was found in high-income North America (AAPC = 1.79%, P < 0.05). The death rate was the highest among children under 5 years worldwide. However, the death rates of elderly individuals over 70 years were higher than those of children under 5 years in 2019 among high, high-middle, middle, and low-middle SDI regions. Current health expenditure, gross domestic product per capita, and the number of physicians per 1000 people were significantly negatively correlated with death rates of rotavirus.

Conclusions

Although the global trends in the rotavirus burden have decreased substantially over the past three decades, the burden of rotavirus remained high in Africa, Oceania, and South Asia. Children under 5 years and elderly individuals over 70 years were the populations most at risk for rotavirus infection-associated deaths, especially elderly individuals over 70 years in relatively high SDI regions. More attention should be paid to these areas and populations, and effective public health policies should be implemented in the future.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12985-022-01898-9.

Antibody Response to Rotavirus C Pre-Farrow Natural Planned Exposure to Gilts and Their Piglets

A longitudinal study was conducted to investigate the dynamics of genotype-specific (G6 and P[5]) antibody response to different doses (3, 2 and 1) of rotavirus C (RVC) natural planned exposure (NPE) in gilt serum, colostrum/milk and piglet serum, and compare with antibody response to rotavirus A NPE (RVA genotypes G4, G5, P[7] and P[23]). G6 and P[5] antigens of RVC were expressed in mammalian and bacterial cells, and used to develop individual indirect ELISAs. For both antigens, group 1 with 3 doses of NPE resulted in significantly higher IgG and IgA levels in colostrum compared to other groups. In piglet serum, group 1 P[5] IgG levels were significantly higher than other study groups at day 0 and 7. Piglet serum had higher IgA levels for group 1 piglets compared to other groups for both antigens. A comparison of colostrum antibody levels to rotavirus A (RVA) and RVC revealed that colostrum RVC IgG and IgA titers were lower than RVA titers irrespective of the G and P-type. Next generation sequencing (NGS) detected same RVC genotypes (G6 and P[5]) circulating in the piglet population under the window of lactogenic immunity. We conclude that the low RVC load in NPE material (real-time PCR Ct-values 32.55, 29.32 and 30.30) failed to induce sufficient maternal immunity in gilts (low colostrum RVC antibody levels) and passively prevent piglets from natural RVC infection in the farrowing room. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study comparing differences in antibody response to porcine RVA and RVC in a commercial setting.

Diverse human and bat-like rotavirus G3 strains circulating in suburban Bangkok

Although rotavirus vaccines are available in many parts of the world and are effective in reducing the overall incidence of rotavirus infection, it remains a major cause of diarrhea in less-developed countries. Among various rotavirus group A (RVA) strains, the increasingly common genotype G3 (defined by the VP7 gene) has been identified in both humans and animals. Our previous epidemiological surveillance in Bangkok found several unusual non-vaccine-like G3 strains in patients with diarrhea. In this study, we sequenced and characterized the genomes of seven of these G3 strains, which formed combinations with genotypes P[4], P[6], P[9], and P[10] (defined by the VP4 gene). Interestingly, we identified a bat-like RVA strain with the genome constellation G3-P[10]-I3-R3-C3-M3-A9-N3-T3-E3-H6, which has not been previously reported in the literature. The amino acid residues deduced from the nucleotide sequences of our G3 strains differed at the antigenic epitopes to those of the VP7 capsid protein of the G3 strain in RotaTeq vaccine. Although it is not unusual for the segmented genomes of RVA to reassort and give rise to emerging novel strains, the atypical G3 strains identified in this study suggest possible animal-to-human RVA zoonotic spillover even in urban areas.

Rotavirus and Adenovirus Prevalence in Patients with Acute Viral Gastroenteritis in Denizli, Turkey, 2017-2021

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine retrospectively the prevalence of rotavirus and enteric adenovirus in patients with gastroenteritis symptoms and the distribution of pathogens by gender, age, seasons, and years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The stool samples sent to Pamukkale University Healthcare Research and Practice Hospital's Medical Microbiology laboratory between January 2017 and December 2021 were evaluated for rotavirus/adenovirus antigen positivity. Rotavirus and adenovirus antigens were studied with the Rotavirus-Adenovirus Combo Rapid Cassette Test (Acro Biotech, USA) kit.

FINDINGS

Rotavirus was detected in 683 (%8.2) of the 8315 stool samples evaluated, and 180 (%2.2) samples were positive for adenovirus. Coinfection was detected in 21 (0.25%) samples. Rotavirus was found at the highest rate in 2019 (p=0.001). The adenovirus was detected in 2020 at a lower rate than in other years (p=0.0001). The rotavirus was observed at a higher rate in 0-<3, 3-<6 and 6-<13 age groups; and adenovirus was detected at a higher rate in 3-<6 and 6-<13 age groups compared to other age groups (p=0.001, p=0.003, respectively). The highest rate of incidence of the rotavirus was found in spring and of adenovirus in winter.

CONCLUSION

In the etiology of gastroenteritis, especially in children, adenovirus and rotavirus should not be ignored in winter and spring. The prevalence of rotavirus was observed to have decreased in 2020 and onwards, and the prevalence of adenovirus decreased in 2020. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and genotypes distribution of group A rotavirus among outpatient children under 5 years with acute diarrhea in Shanghai, China, 2012-2018

Background

Group A rotavirus (RVA) remains the main causative agent of acute diarrhea among children under five years in countries that have not yet introduced the RVA vaccine worldwide. Long-term and continuous monitoring data on RVA infection in outpatient children were lacking in Shanghai. We investigated the prevalence and distribution of RVA genotypes in outpatient children with acute diarrhea in Shanghai from 2012 to 2018.

Methods

Stool specimens of outpatient children under five years were collected from the Children’s Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai, China. All the samples enrolled in this study were detected and characterized for the P and G genotypes of RVA were determined using the semi-multiplex RT-PCR technique.

Results

Of 1814 children enrolled with acute diarrhea and having specimens collected, 246 (13.6%) were infected with RVA. The highest frequency of RVA was observed in children younger than two years old (87.0%, 214/246). Year-round RVA transmission was observed and the RVA detection rate peaked every winter and troughed in summer. In this study, 12 different RVA strains were identified in children. G9P[8] (49.2%, 121/246) was detected as the most prevalent genotype, followed by G–P[8] (22.8%, 56/246), G3P[8] (11.4%, 28/246), and G9P- (4.9%, 12/246). Although RVA strains detected in this study varied with the time, G9P[8] has been the most predominant circulating genotype since 2012. Furthermore, 12.2% (30/246) RVA positive samples were co-infected with other diarrhea viruses.

Conclusion

The present analysis showed that RVA was still a major cause of children with acute diarrhea in Shanghai from 2012 to 2018. A great diversity of RVA strains circulated in children with acute diarrhea with G9P[8] being the predominant genotype since 2012. Long-term and continuous monitoring of RVA genotypes is therefore indispensable to refine future vaccine strategy in Shanghai.

Rotavirus Infection in Children <5 Years of Age in Suzhou, China, 2013-2019: Disease Burden, Genotype Distribution and Seasonality

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine the disease burden and strain distribution of rotavirus in children with diarrhea <5 years old in Suzhou, China.

METHODS

The study was conducted among children with diarrhea <5 years old at Suzhou University Affiliated Children's Hospital from 2013 to 2019. Rotavirus antigen was detected in clinical laboratory and then sent to Suzhou Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for further molecular analysis. Group A rotavirus (RVA) was detected through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and G-genotype and P-genotype of RVA were tested using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Of a total of 198,130 children with diarrhea, 70,813 (35.7%) were positive for RVA; RVA-related diarrhea was detected in 7798 (20.7%, n = 7798/37,710) inpatients and 63,015 (39.3%, n = 63,015/160,420) outpatients. Most children (92.0%, n = 65,171/70,813) positive for RVA were found as children <3 years old. Children 12-35 months old were reported as the highest prevalence among all age groups. The seasonal peak of RVA was in the autumn and winter. Among all 673 RVA strains genotyped, the G9P[8] strain was reported to be persistently predominant in the pediatric population from 2013 to 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

The burden of diarrhea disease due to rotavirus infection remains high in Suzhou.

Rotaviruses: From Pathogenesis to Disease Control-A Critical Review

Since their first recognition in human cases about four decades ago, rotaviruses have remained the leading cause of acute severe dehydrating diarrhea among infants and young children worldwide. The WHO prequalification of oral rotavirus vaccines (ORV) a decade ago and its introduction in many countries have yielded a significant decline in the global burden of the disease, although not without challenges to achieving global effectiveness. Poised by the unending malady of rotavirus diarrhea and the attributable death cases in developing countries, we provide detailed insights into rotavirus biology, exposure pathways, cellular receptors and pathogenesis, host immune response, epidemiology, and vaccination. Additionally, recent developments on the various host, viral and environmental associated factors impacting ORV performance in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) are reviewed and their significance assessed. In addition, we review the advances in nonvaccine strategies (probiotics, candidate anti-rotaviral drugs, breastfeeding) to disease prevention and management.

Molecular Epidemiology of Rotavirus Strains in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Children in Manhiça District, Southern Mozambique 2008-2019

Group A rotaviruses remain the leading cause of diarrhoea in children aged <5 years. Mozambique introduced rotavirus vaccine (Rotarix^®) in September 2015. We report rotavirus genotypes circulating among symptomatic and asymptomatic children in Manhiça District, Mozambique, pre- and post-vaccine introduction. Stool was collected from enrolled children and screened for rotavirus by enzyme-immuno-sorbent assay. Positive specimens were genotyped for VP7 (G genotypes) and VP4 (P genotypes) by the conventional reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The combination G12P[8] was more frequently observed in pre-vaccine than in post-vaccine introduction, in moderate to severe diarrhoea (34%, 61/177 vs. 0, p < 0.0001) and controls (23%, 26/113 vs. 0, p = 0.0013) and mixed genotypes (36%, 24/67 vs. 7% 4/58, p = 0.0003) in less severe diarrhoea. We observed changes in post-vaccine compared to pre-vaccine introduction, where G3P[4] and G3P[8] were prevalent in moderate to severe diarrhoea (10%, 5/49 vs. 0, p = 0.0002; and 14%, 7/49 vs. 1%, 1/177, p < 0.0001; respectively), and in less severe diarrhoea (21%, 12/58 vs. 0, p = 0.003; and 24%, 14/58 vs. 0, p < 0.0001; respectively). Our surveillance demonstrated the circulation of similar genotypes contemporaneously among cases and controls, as well as switching from pre- to post-vaccine introduction. Continuous surveillance is needed to evaluate the dynamics of the changes in genotypes following vaccine introduction.

Effect of rotavirus genetic diversity on vaccine impact

Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the leading cause of gastroenteritis, causing 0.2 million deaths and several million hospitalisations globally each year. Four rotavirus vaccines (Rotarix^TM , RotaTeq^TM , Rotavac^® and ROTASIIL^® ) have been pre-qualified by the World Health Organization (WHO), but the two newly pre-qualified vaccines (Rotavac^® and ROTASIIL^® ) are currently only in use in Palestine and India, respectively. In 2009, WHO strongly proposed that rotavirus vaccines be included in the routine vaccination schedule of all countries around the world. By the end of 2019, a total of 108 countries had administered rotavirus vaccines, and 10 countries have currently been approved by Gavi for the introduction of rotavirus vaccine in the near future. With 39% of global coverage, rotavirus vaccines have had a substantial effect on diarrhoeal morbidity and mortality in different geographical areas, although efficacy appears to be higher in high income settings. Due to the segmented RNA genome, the pattern of RVA genotypes in the human population is evolving through interspecies transmission and/or reassortment events for which the vaccine might be less effective in the future. However, despite the relative increase in some particular genotypes after rotavirus vaccine use, the overall efficacy of rotavirus mass vaccination worldwide has not been affected. Some of the challenges to improve the effect of current rotavirus vaccines can be solved in the future by new rotavirus vaccines and by vaccines currently in progress.

High divergence of human astrovirus genotypes circulating in pediatric patients hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis in Chiang Mai, Thailand, 2017-2020

Human astrovirus (HAstV) is one of the common causes of acute gastroenteritis in children. The investigation of molecular epidemiology of HAstV is essential for monitoring the emergence and/or re-emergence of new HAstV genotypes, as well as understanding the evolution of HAstV circulating in children suffering from acute gastroenteritis. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence and distribution of HAstVs strains circulating in children hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis in Chiang Mai, Thailand during 2017-2020. A total of 1500 fecal specimens collected from children with acute gastroenteritis were screened for HAstV by RT-PCR that targeted the partial RdRp in ORF1b and strains were characterized by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Of the 1500 fecal samples, 39 (2.6%) were positive for HAstV. Of these, both classic and novel HAstV genotypes, including classic HAstV1-HAstV5, novel HAstV-MLB1, MLB2, and HAstV-VA2, were detected. The data in this study revealed a high divergence of HAstV genotypes circulating in pediatric patients admitted to the hospitals with acute gastroenteritis in Chiang Mai, Thailand during 2017-2020.

Childhood Rotavirus Infection Associated with Temperature and Particulate Matter 2.5 µm: A Retrospective Cohort Study

No study has ever investigated how ambient temperature and PM_2.5 mediate rotavirus infection (RvI) in children. We used insurance claims data from Taiwan in 2006–2012 to evaluate the RvI characteristics in children aged ≤ 9. The RvI incidence rates were higher in colder months, reaching the highest in March (117.0/100 days), and then declining to the lowest in July (29.2/100 days). The age–sex-specific average incident cases were all higher in boys than in girls. Stratified analysis by temperature (<20, 20–24, and ≥25 °C) and PM_2.5 (<17.5, 17.5–31.4, 31.5–41.9, and ≥42.0 μg/m³) showed that the highest incidence was 16.4/100 days at average temperatures of <20 °C and PM_2.5 of 31.5–41.9 μg/m³, with Poisson regression analysis estimating an adjusted relative risk (aRR) of 1.26 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.11–1.43), compared to the incidence at the reference condition (<20 °C and PM_2.5 < 17.5 μg/m³). As the temperature increased, the incident RvI cases reduced to 4.84 cases/100 days (aRR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.35–0.45) when it was >25 °C with PM_2.5 < 17.5 μg/m³, or to 9.84/100 days (aRR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.77–0.93) when it was >25 °C with PM_2.5 > 42 μg/m³. The seasonal RvI is associated with frequent indoor personal contact among children in the cold months. The association with PM_2.5 could be an alternative assessment due to temperature inversion.

Molecular surveillance and genetic divergence of rotavirus A antigenic epitopes in Gabonese children with acute gastroenteritis

Background

Rotavirus A (RVA) causes acute gastroenteritis in children <5 years of age in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, we described the epidemiology and genetic diversity of RVA infecting Gabonese children and examined the antigenic variability of circulating strains in relation to available vaccine strains to maximize the public health benefits of introducing rotavirus vaccine through the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in Gabon.

Methods

Stool samples were collected consecutively between April 2018 and November 2019 from all hospitalized children <5 years with gastroenteritis and community controls without gastroenteritis. Children were tested for rotavirus A by quantitative RT-PCR and subsequently sequenced to identify circulating rotavirus A genotypes in the most vulnerable population. The VP7 and VP4 (VP8*) antigenic epitopes were mapped to homologs of vaccine strains to assess structural variability and potential impact on antigenicity.

Findings

Infections were mostly acquired during the dry season. Rotavirus A was detected in 98/177 (55%) hospitalized children with gastroenteritis and 14/67 (21%) of the control children. The most common RVA genotypes were G1 (18%), G3 (12%), G8 (18%), G9 (2%), G12 (25%), with G8 and G9 reported for the first time in Gabon. All were associated either with P[6] (31%) or P[8] (38%) genotypes. Several non-synonymous substitutions were observed in the antigenic epitopes of VP7 (positions 94 and 147) and VP8* (positions 89, 116, 146 and 150), which may modulate the elicited immune responses.

Interpretation

This study contributes to the epidemiological surveillance of rotavirus A required before the introduction of rotavirus vaccination in the EPI for Gabonese children.

ROTADIAL: The first nanobody-based immunoassay to detect Group A Rotavirus

ROTADIAL is a rapid nanobody (Nb)-based ELISA assay able to identify Rotavirus group A (RVA) in feces from pediatric patients. The assay is based on a sandwich of two patented llama-derived Nbs directed to the inner capsid viral protein VP6 from RVA. Nbs are directed to conformational epitopes of VP6 and recognized all human RVA strains tested, representing ideal reagents for their use in immunodiagnostic tests for RVA detection. All the steps are carried out at room temperature, bringing results in less than two hours. This assay, named ROTADIAL, was validated with a reference panel of feces from pediatric patients from Argentina. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the ROTADIAL test, when compared to a commercial test, was 100 % (100/100) and 99 % (99/100) respectively. ROTADIAL presented optimal analytical performance, being capable of detecting RVA regardless of the presence of other common human enteric infectious agents and is the first RVA-diagnostic assay developed using Nbs, worldwide.

Structural Basis of Glycan Recognition of Rotavirus

Rotavirus (RV) is an important pathogen causing acute gastroenteritis in young humans and animals. Attachment to the host receptor is a crucial step for the virus infection. The recent advances in illustrating the interactions between RV and glycans promoted our understanding of the host range and epidemiology of RVs. VP8*, the distal region of the RV outer capsid spike protein VP4, played a critical role in the glycan recognition. Group A RVs were classified into different P genotypes based on the VP4 sequences and recognized glycans in a P genotype-dependent manner. Glycans including sialic acid, gangliosides, histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs), and mucin cores have been reported to interact with RV VP8*s. The glycan binding specificities of VP8*s of different RV genotypes have been studied. Here, we mainly discussed the structural basis for the interactions between RV VP8*s and glycans, which provided molecular insights into the receptor recognition and host tropism, offering new clues to the design of RV vaccine and anti-viral agents.

Nano and Microparticles as Potential Oral Vaccine Carriers and Adjuvants Against Infectious Diseases

Mucosal surfaces are the first site of infection for most infectious diseases and oral vaccination can provide protection as the first line of defense. Unlike systemic administration, oral immunization can stimulate cellular and humoral immune responses at both systemic and mucosal levels to induce broad-spectrum and long-lasting immunity. Therefore, to design a successful vaccine, it is essential to stimulate the mucosal as well as systemic immune responses. Successful oral vaccines need to overcome the harsh gastrointestinal environment such as the extremely low pH, proteolytic enzymes, bile salts as well as low permeability and the low immunogenicity of vaccines. In recent years, several delivery systems and adjuvants have been developed for improving oral vaccine delivery and immunogenicity. Formulation of vaccines with nanoparticles and microparticles have been shown to improve antigen stability, availability and adjuvanticity as well as immunostimulatory capacity, target delivery and specific release. This review discusses how nanoparticles (NPs) and microparticles (MPs) as oral carriers with adjuvant characteristics can be beneficial in oral vaccine development.

Epidemiology and genetic diversity of group A rotavirus in pediatric patients with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand, 2018-2019

Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the major viruses that cause acute gastroenteritis in young children worldwide. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and genotype diversity of RVAs circulating in children with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand in 2018-2019. A total of 1170 stool specimens were obtained from children admitted to hospitals with diarrhea and screened for RVAs by nested RT-PCR. The RVA genotypes were determined by multiplex-PCR or nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Out of 1170 stool specimens, 209 (17.9%) were positive for RVAs. The RVA G9P[8] genotype (24.4%) was the most dominant genotype, followed by G3P[8] (22.9%), G8P[8] (22.0%), G1P[8] (16.7%), G2P[4] (6.7%), G1P[6] (2.3%), G1P[4] (1.0%), G3P[4] (1.0%), G9P[4] (1.0%), mixed-infections of G1P[4] + G1P[8] (1.0%), and GXP[8] (0.5%). Moreover, an uncommon RVA G3P[10] genotype (0.5%), bearing bat-like VP7 and VP4 genes, was detected. This study reveals the prevalence and genetic diversity of RVA genotypes in children with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand. The knowledge obtained from this study is helpful for understanding the epidemiology of rotavirus in Thailand. The emergence of uncommon RVA strain G3P[10] provides an evidence for interspecies transmission of human and animal rotaviruses.

Rotavirus gastroenteritis in Pakistan, 2018: updated disease burden

Objective

Rotavirus A (RVA) is a significant cause of severe diarrheal illness and one of the common causes of death in children under the age of five. This study was aimed at detecting the prevalence of RVA in Pakistan after rotavirus vaccines were introduced. Fecal samples were obtained from 813 children from different hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan, from January 2018 to December 2018. To obtain additional information from the parents / guardians of the children, a standard questionnaire was used.

Results

Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (ELISA), rotavirus antigen was detected and ELISA positive samples were subjected to reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). The findings showed 22% prevalence of RVA in children with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) via ELISA and 21% prevalence via RT-PCR in children with AGE. There was no statistically significant difference between gender, age and RVA infections. The winter, spring and fall/autumn seasons were statistically significant for RVA prevalence.

Conclusion

The present study will provide post vaccine prevalence data for the health policy makers. The implementation of rotavirus vaccines, along with adequate nutrition for babies, clean water supply and maternal hygienic activities during infant feeding, is recommended. Furthermore, continuous surveillance is mandatory in the whole country to calculate the disease burden caused by RVA.

Prevalence and Distribution of Rotavirus Genotypes Among Children With Acute Gastroenteritis in Areas Other Than Java Island, Indonesia, 2016-2018

Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, which is often associated with severe symptoms in children under 5 years old. Genetic reassortments and interspecies transmission commonly occur, resulting in a great diversity of RVA circulating in the world. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and distribution of RVA genotypes among children in Indonesia over the years 2016–2018 across representative areas of the country. Stool samples were collected from 202 pediatric patients with acute gastroenteritis in three regions of Indonesia (West Nusa Tenggara, South Sumatra, and West Papua) in 2016–2018. Rotavirus G and P genotypes were determined by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and direct sequencing analysis. The prevalences of RVA in South Sumatra (55.4%) and West Papua (54.0%) were significantly higher than that in East Java (31.7%) as determined in our previous study. The prevalence in West Nusa Tenggara (42.6%) was the lowest among three regions, but higher than that in East Java. Interestingly, equine-like G3 rotavirus strains were found as predominant strains in South Sumatra in 2016 and in West Papua in 2017–2018. Moreover, the equine-like G3 strains in South Sumatra detected in 2016 were completely replaced by human G1 and G2 in 2018. In conclusion, RVA infection in South Sumatra and West Papua was highly endemic. Equine-like G3 strains were also spread to South Sumatra (West Indonesia) and West Papua (East Indonesia), as well as Java Island. Dynamic change in rotavirus genotypes from equine-like G3 to human genotypes was also observed. Continuous monitoring may be warranted in isolated areas in Indonesia.

Analyses of viral genomes for G-quadruplex forming sequences reveal their correlation with the type of infection

G-quadruplexes contribute to the regulation of key molecular processes. Their utilization for antiviral therapy is an emerging field of contemporary research. Here we present comprehensive analyses of the presence and localization of putative G-quadruplex forming sequences (PQS) in all viral genomes currently available in the NCBI database (including subviral agents). The G4Hunter algorithm was applied to a pool of 11,000 accessible viral genomes representing 350 Mbp in total. PQS frequencies differ across evolutionary groups of viruses, and are enriched in repeats, replication origins, 5'UTRs and 3'UTRs. Importantly, PQS presence and localization is connected to viral lifecycles and corresponds to the type of viral infection rather than to nucleic acid type; while viruses routinely causing persistent infections in Metazoa hosts are enriched for PQS, viruses causing acute infections are significantly depleted for PQS. The unique localization of PQS identifies the importance of G-quadruplex-based regulation of viral replication and life cycle, providing a tool for potential therapeutic targeting.

Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Hospitalizations Among Under-5 Children in Northern India

OBJECTIVE

To study epidemiological profile, prevalence, and molecular epidemiology of RVGE in hospitalized under-5 children at a tertiary care teaching rural hospital located in sub-Himalayan belt of Northern India.

METHODS

This was a hospital-based surveillance study done over 4 y (2016-2019) including under-5 children hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis (AGE). Demographic and clinical parameters were recorded in a pre-designed performa. After consent, stool samples were collected and sent to Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore for RV screening by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Each EIA-positive sample was further subjected to G and P typing using published methods.

RESULTS

Out of total 851 included children, rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) was detected in 23.03% (196/851) cases by EIA. The highest incidence for RVGE-positive cases (40.43%) was observed in 2016 with gradual decline over next 3 y. Maximum cases of diarrhea were observed in 12-23 mo age group along with highest rotavirus detection. G3P[8] was most common genotype (46.94%) found, followed by G1P[8] (13.78%), G2P[4] (4.59%), G1P[6] (8.16%) and G9P[4] (3.57%). Mixed genotype was seen in 13.78% of total cases.

CONCLUSION

This study summarizes the changing trends in the epidemiology of RVGE in Northern India along with the major circulating genotypes postvaccine introduction.

High prevalence of circulating DS-1-like human rotavirus A and genotype diversity in children with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand from 2016 to 2019

Background

Human rotavirus A (RVA) infection is the primary cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in infants and young children worldwide, especially in children under 5 years of age and is a major public health problem causing severe diarrhea in children in Thailand. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, genotype diversity, and molecular characterization of rotavirus infection circulating in children under 15 years of age diagnosed with AGE in Thailand from January 2016 to December 2019.

Methods

A total of 2,001 stool samples were collected from children with gastroenteritis (neonates to children <15 years of age) and tested for RVA by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Amplified products were sequenced and submitted to an online genotyping tool for analysis.

Results

Overall, 301 (15.0%) stool samples were positive for RVA. RVA occurred most frequently among children aged 0-24 months. The seasonal incidence of rotavirus infection occurred typically in Thailand during the winter months (December-March). The G3P[8] genotype was identified as the most prevalent genotype (33.2%, 100/301), followed by G8P[8] (10.6%, 32/301), G9P[8] (6.3%, 19/301), G2P[4] (6.0%, 18/301), and G1P[6] (5.3%, 16/301). Uncommon G and P combinations such as G9P[4], G2P[8], G3P[4] and G3P[9] were also detected at low frequencies. In terms of genetic backbone, the unusual DS-1-like G3P[8] was the most frequently detected (28.2%, 85/301), and the phylogenetic analysis demonstrated high nucleotide identity with unusual DS-1-like G3P[8] detected in Thailand and several countries.

Conclusions

A genetic association between RVA isolates from Thailand and other countries ought to be investigated given the local and global dissemination of rotavirus as it is crucial for controlling viral gastroenteritis, and implications for the national vaccination programs.

Rotavirus genotype trends from 2013 to 2018 and vaccine effectiveness in southern Vietnam

OBJECTIVES

Rotavirus (RV) genotypes vary geographically, and this can affect vaccine effectiveness (VE). This study investigated the genotype distribution of RV and explored VE before introducing the RV vaccine to the national immunization programme in Vietnam.

METHODS

This hospital-based surveillance study was conducted at Children's Hospital 1, Ho Chi Minh City in 2013-2018. Stool samples and relevant data, including vaccination history, were collected from children aged <5 years who were hospitalized with gastroenteritis. RV was detected using enzyme immunoassays and then genotyped. Children aged ≥6 months were included in the VE analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 5176 children were included in this study. RV was detected in 2421 children (46.8%). RV positivity decreased over the study period and was associated with age, seasonality, location and previous vaccination. Among 1105 RV-positive samples, G3P[8] was the most prevalent genotype (43.1%), followed by G8P[8] (19.7%), G1P[8] (12.9%) and G2P[4] (12.9%). Overall VE was 69.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 53.3-80.6%] in fully vaccinated children and 58.6% (95% CI 44.1-69.4%) in children who had received at least one dose of RV vaccine. VE was highest for G3P[8] (95% CI 75.1-84.5%) and lowest for G2P[4] (95% CI 32.4-57.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

RV remains a major cause of acute gastroenteritis requiring hospitalization in southern Vietnam. The RV vaccine is effective, but its effectiveness varies with RV genotype.

Rotavirus Induces Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Markers by Transcriptional Suppression of miRNA-29b

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a serious global health problem and has been known to cause millions of infant deaths every year. Rotavirus (RV), a member of the Reoviridae family, still majorly accounts for the AGE in children below 5 years of age in India and worldwide. The involvement of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of RV has been suggested to be of the proviral as well as the anti-viral nature. miRNAs that promote the RV pathogenesis are capable of targeting the cellular components to evade the host anti-viral strategies. On the other hand, miRNAs with anti-rotaviral properties are themselves incapacitated during the progression of the infection. The exploitation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as a pro-rotaviral strategy has already been identified. Thus, miRNAs that proficiently target the intermediates of the EMT pathway may serve as anti-viral counterparts in the RV-host interactions. The role of microRNA-29b (miR-29b) in the majority of human cancers has been well demonstrated, but its significance in viral infections is yet to be elaborated. In this study, we have assessed the role of miR-29b in RV-induced EMT and RV replication. Our study on miR-29b provides evidence for the recruitment of RV non-structural protein NSP1 to control the trans-repression of miR-29b in a p53-dependent manner. The trans-repression of miR-29b modulates the EMT pathway by targeting tripartite motif-containing protein 44 (TRIM44) and cyclin E1 (CCNE1). SLUG and SNAIL transcription repressors (downstream of TRIM44 and CCNE1) regulate the expression of E-cadherin, an important marker of the EMT. Also, it is established that ectopic expression of miR-29b not only constrains the EMT pathway but also restricts RV replication. Therefore, miR-29b repression is a crucial event in the RV pathogenesis. Ectopic expression of miR-29b displays potential anti-viral properties against RV propagation.

Comparative Analysis of G1P[8] Rotaviruses Identified Prior to Vaccine Implementation in Pakistan With Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ Vaccine Strains

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the leading cause of severe childhood diarrhea globally, even with all effective interventions, particularly in developing countries. Among the diverse genotypes of RVA, G1P[8] is a common genotype that has continued to pervade around the world, including Pakistan. Two universally accepted rotavirus vaccines-Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ contain the genotype G1P[8]. The current work was aimed at identifying differences between antigenic epitopes of Pakistan’s G1P[8] strains and those of the two licensed vaccines. We sequenced 6 G1P[8] rotavirus strains previously reported in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Pakistan in 2015 and 2016 for their outer capsid genes (VP7 and VP4). Phylogenetic analysis was then conducted in order to classify their specific lineages and to detect their association with strains isolated throughout world. Compared with the Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ vaccine strains (G1-lineage II, P[8]-lineage III), our study G1-lineage I, P[8]-lineage IV strains showed 3 and 5 variations in the VP7 epitopes, respectively, and 13 and 11 variations in the VP4 epitopes, respectively. The G1 lineage II strains showed no single amino acid change compared to Rotarix™ (lineage II), but exhibited changes at 2 positions compared to RotaTeq™ (lineage III). So, this has been proposed that these G1 strains exist in our natural setting, or that they may have been introduced in Pakistan from other countries of the world. The distinct P[8]-lineage IV (OP354-like) strains showed twelve and thirteen amino acid variations, with Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ (lineages II and III) strains, respectively. Such findings have shown that the VP4-P[8] component of the G1P[8] strains circulating in Pakistan differs considerably from that of the vaccine viruses compared to that of the VP7-G1. To monitor the long-term effects of vaccines on the emergence of G1P[8] strains with different lineages, routine and successful monitoring of these strains will be crucial.

Surveillance of Human Rotavirus in Wuhan, China (2011-2019): Predominance of G9P[8] and Emergence of G12

Rotaviruses are a major etiologic agent of gastroenteritis in infants and young children worldwide. To learn the shift of genotypes and genetic characteristics of Rotavirus A (RVA) causing diarrhea in children and adults, a hospital-based surveillance of rotavirus was conducted in Wuhan, China from June 2011 through May 2019, and representative virus strains were phylogenetically analyzed. Among a total of 6733 stool specimens collected from both children and adults with acute gastroenteritis, RVA was detected in 25.5% (1125/4409) and 12.3% (285/2324) of specimens, respectively. G9P[⁸] was the most common genotype (74.5%), followed by G1P[⁸] (8.7%), G2P[⁴] (8.4%), and G3P[⁸] (7.3%), with G9P[⁸] increasing rapidly during the study period. The predominant genotype shifted from G1P[⁸] to G9P[⁸] in 2012-2013 epidemic season. G12P[⁶] strain RVA/Human-wt/CHN/Z2761/2019/G12P[⁶] was detected in April 2019 and assigned to G12-P[⁶]-I1-R1-C1-M1-A1-N1-T2-E1-H1 genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that VP7, VP4, VP6, VP3, NSP1, NSP2, and NSP5 genes of Z2761 clustered closely with those of Korean G12P[⁶] strain CAU_214, showing high nucleotide identities (98.0-98.8%). The NSP3 gene of Z2761 was closely related to those of G2P[⁴] and G12P[⁶] rotaviruses in Asia. All the eleven gene segments of Z2761 kept distance from those of cocirculating G9P[⁸], G1P[⁸], and G3P[⁸] strains detected in Wuhan during this study period. This is the first identification of G12 rotavirus in China. It is deduced that Z2761 is a reassortant having DS-1-like NSP3 gene in the background of G12P[⁶] rotavirus genetically close to CAU_214.