Demographic Profile and Genotypic Distribution of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis from Rural Haryana, India

Objective To know the prevalence of rotavirus among hospitalized <5 y children, their demographic profile and genotypic distribution of rotavirus strain from tertiary care center of rural Haryana. Methods An observational 3-year study done from June 2016 to June 2019 where children under 5 y of age hospitalized for acute gastroenteritis were enrolled. Various demographic, environmental, and clinical parameters were assessed. Stool samples were collected and sent to CMC, Vellore for rotavirus screening by enzyme immune assay (EIA) and RV-positive samples were genotyped using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results Out of 444 stool sample screened, 107 were positive (24.1%) for rotavirus. RV positive cases seen mostly in 6-24 mo age group with moderate to severe dehydration at presentation and peaks in winter months (Dec - Feb). G3P[8] (35.24%) is the most prevalent genotype identified followed by G1P[8] (20.95%), G1P[6] (11.43%), G2P[4] (6.67%) and G12P[8] (2.86%). Conclusion Continuous surveillance is required to monitor the circulating genotypes in postvaccination phase and assess the effectiveness and impact of the vaccine.