Rotavirus Surveillance in Urban and Rural Areas of Niger, April 2010–March 2012

Abstract

Knowledge of rotavirus epidemiology is necessary to make informed decisions about vaccine introduction and to evaluate vaccine impact. During April 2010–March 2012, rotavirus surveillance was conducted among 9,745 children 80% of isolates during the second year. Hospitalization and death rates and severe dehydration among rotavirus case-patients did not differ during the 2 years. The emergence of G12P[8] warrants close attention to the characteristics of associated epidemics and possible prevention measures.

Keywords

• rotavirus
• genotyping
• diarrheal diseases
• Niger
• developing countries
• malnutrition