Rotavirus and other diarrheal disease in a birth cohort from Southern Indian community

To describe the incidence, severity and etiology of diarrheal disease in infants and young children residing in an urban slum community in Southern India. Three contiguous urban slums in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. 452 children participating in a birth cohort study on diarrheal disease; 373 completed three years of follow-up. Diarrheal incidence (obtained by twiceweekly home visits) and severity (assessed by the Vesikari scoring system), and etiological agents associated with diarrhea (through examination of stool specimens by bacteriologic culture, rotavirus enzyme immunoassay, PCR for norovirus and microscopy for parasites). A total of 1856 diarrheal episodes were reported in 373 children. The overall incidence rate of diarrhea was 1.66 episodes per child year for three years, with 2.76 episodes per child year in infancy. The incidence peaked during the months of July and August. Severe diarrhea formed 8% of the total episodes. Rotavirus was the most common pathogen detected, being identified in 18% of episodes. Good hygiene status resulted in 33% protection against moderate-to-severe diarrhea. This study highlights the burden of diarrheal disease and the important etiological agents of childhood diarrhea in Southern India. Promotion of hygienic behavior through health education may help reduce diarrheal incidence in this and similar communities.