Molecular epidemiology of rotavirus infections among children hospitalized for acute gastroenteritis in Shanghai, China, 2001 through 2005

BackgroundRotavirus is the most common cause of severe diarrhea in children in the world. Knowing the prevalence and genotypes of these infections is important for implementing vaccination programs.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence and genotypes of rotavirus infections in Shanghai, China between 2001 and 2005.Study designStool specimens were analyzed from children under 5 years old who were hospitalized for acute gastroenteritis.ResultsOf 5411 specimens, 1436 (26.5%) were rotavirus-positive. More than 80% of children with rotavirus infections were younger than 2 years old. Prevalence peaked from October to December each year. The G3, P[8], and P[8]G3 genotypes were the most common during these 5 years. The prevalence of the G1 genotype decreased from 29% in 2001 to 2% in 2004.ConclusionsIn Shanghai, use of currently available vaccines against rotaviruses would be effective, especially for infants less than 2 years old. Information on the variations of circulating genotypes in this area of China provides useful data for formulating vaccine policy and evaluating vaccine efficacy.