Subgroup and serotype epidemiology of human rotaviruses recovered at Ga-Rankuwa, southern Africa.

This study analysed human rotaviruses isolated in Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa, using monoclonal antibodies directed at the subgroup-specific and serotype-specific antigens of the virus. The subgroup could be determined for 73pc of the specimens. Subgroup II viruses occurred more commonly than subgroup I viruses (77pc vs 22pc). A serotype specificity could be assigned in 65pc of cases with three serotypes observed to be circulating in this population. Serotype one strains were identified most commonly (43pc) with serotype two (12pc) and serotype four (9pc) strains also present. No serotype three strains were detected. One strain was identified which reacted with both subgroup I and II monoclonal antibodies and with serotype one and two monoclonal antibodies. This study highlights the unpredictable nature of the emergence of new serotypes and importance of surveillance of human rotavirus infection in this sub-continental region.