Abstract

The prevalence of Rotavirus (RV)-related gastroenteritis in Cameroon was monitored in this study, identifying the circulating G-P types, and the presence of co-infection with intestinal parasites. The stool samples were examined for rotaviruses using chromatographic and molecular techniques, and parasites were identified by macroscopic and microscopic examination. 38% of samples were RV positive. Data revealed the presence of three different G-genotypes (G1, G2 and G8) and three P-genotypes (P [8], P[6] and P[4]). The main G-P combination was G1+G2P[8]. Entamoeba histolytica was identified in 44.4% of stool samples. The G2P[8] genotype identified is an unusual strain with the G1P[8] or G2P[4] more common. Genotype G8 strains, also associated with animals, have been sporadically recovered from humans and have been considered for inclusion in bovine-human reassortant vaccine. Epidemiological RV strain surveillance should be continued in order to support RV vaccination campaigns. The results also show a high prevalence of intestinal parasite infections.

Key words: Gastroenteritis, rotavirus, G/P genotype, semi-nested multiplex PCR, intestinal parasites, Cameroon.