Surveillance of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis

Epidemiological Surveillance of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis With a Perspective of Vaccination

• Epidemiological studies have shown the diversity of resistance genotypes and the evolution of their prevalence in the paediatric population. This large study conducted in a context of very low vaccination coverage will generate more precise data on the natural epidemiological evolution of rotavirus, notably the G9 genotype, which has appeared relatively recently.
• This study will allow us to identify and document rare or unusual strains of human or animal origin. The complete genetic characterization of these strains will also make it possible to study their ability to recombine and to assess the risk of emergence. Among these still rare strains, the investigators are particularly monitoring G12 rotavirus, whose ability to recombine raises the risk of emergence.
• For at least one of the centres taking part in the study, the paediatric population studied will be given strong vaccination coverage. It will be extremely interesting to compare the results obtained in the vaccinated population with non-vaccinated children to assess the impact of this vaccination on the distribution of rotavirus genotypes

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children hospitalized or consulting in one of the participating centres since January 2007 for acute gastroenteritis (AGE). AGE is defined by at least 3 soft or liquid stools or at least 3 bouts of vomiting within 24 hours or one of the following signs - diarrhoea or vomiting accompanied by at least 2 additional symptoms among diarrhoea or vomistin, abdominal pain, fever.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children older than 5 years.
• Children presenting chronic diarrhoea (> 2 weeks).
• Children presentant immune deficiency.
• Children presenting nosocomial gastroenteritis. The nosocomial nature will be determined by the onset of acute diarrhoea occuring after 48 hours following admission