Molecular characterization of genotype G6 human rotavirus strains detected in Italy from 1986 to 2009

► HRV G6 strains have been detected sporadically in Palermo since the late 1980s. ► Italian G6 HRVs displayed a conserved genotype constellation G6-P[9]/[14]-I2-E2-H3. ► Phylogenetic analyses revealed lineage/sublineage combinations retained over time. ► We demonstrated diverse origin of G6 HRVs and suggested human-to-human transmission.