Epidemiologic and Electron Microscopic Study of Viral Gastroenteritis in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, Revealed three Distinct Cauzative Agent Groups

Abstract

Between 1979 and 1983, stools were collected from infants and young children suffering from acute diarrhea in Kagawa Prefecture, Shikoku Island, Japan. These were examined by electron microscopy. Rotaviral, adenoviral, and small spherical particles were found. The last group was subclassified further as: calicivirus, particles resembling the Norwalk agent, smooth-surfaced particles of 25-30 nm diameter, and rough-surfaced ones of 30-35 nm. Rotavirus was found mainly between December and March, inclusive; the pattern of detection was distinct and consistent over the surveillance period. Adenovirus was observed during summer and small spherical particles during winter in the period studied. The detection pattern of these two groups differed yearly.