Epidemiological features of rotavirus infection in Caracas, Venezuela: implications for rotavirus immunization programs.

摘要: The epidemiological features of rotavirus infection may be quite relevant for evaluation the performance a vaccine in different settings, as well monitoring its impact during vaccination under routine conditions. This article describes some important issues regarding epidemiology Venezuela, where major field trials have been carried out. Rotaviruses was significantly more frequently observed inpatient (43%) than outpatient (21%) consultations diarrhea infants and young children. There high prevalence illness, regardless socioeconomic conditions, but risk dehydration greater among lower groups. Rotavirus disease occurs year-round, with slight seasonal pattern. Eighty-five percent rotavirus-positive diarrheal episodes, 86% cases due to rotavirus, occurred first year life. However, illnesses occur less commonly months life (0-2 months), which result protection by transplacental antibodies. pattern acquisition antibody consistent this age distribution optimal vaccination. Thus, regional characteristics affect vaccine.