Serotypic characterization of group a rotaviruses associated with children's diarrhea in Slovakia

A total of 368 rotavirus RNA-positive (PAGE) stool samples collected continually during 1992-95 from infants and young children under five years of age hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis were serotyped using an enzyme immunoassay with VP7-specific monoclonal antibodies (ELISA with MAbs) for serotypes G1-G4. The serotype was identified in 106 stool samples (29 %). Comparison of electropherotype and serotype profile in individual samples did not show any remarkable correlation. The members of three electropherotypes (A, C, K) belonged to all 4 serotypes. The representatives of two electropherotypes (E, G) and of mixed electropherotype did not react with any of the specific monoclonal antibodies used. The distribution of the serotypes was scored as 52, 13, 14 and 7.5 % for G1 G4, respectively, whereas 13 % of samples reacted with two or more type-specific monoclonal antibodies. The GI serotype dominated during the period followed.