Rotavirus infection in children: clinical and epidemiological features at the present stage

Abstract

Rotavirus infection (RVI) occupies a leading position in the structure of viral diarrhea, is characterized by a high level of morbidity, predominantly affecting the child population, a variety of clinical manifestations, and the possible development of adverse outcomes.

The purpose of the study. To study the clinical and epidemiological features of RVI against the background of an increase in morbidity in the Krasnoyarsk Territory in 2024. 
Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of 438 medical records of children aged 28 days to 17 years hospitalized in the infectious diseases hospital of the Krasnoyarsk Interdistrict Children's Clinical Hospital No. 1 in 2024 with a diagnosis of rotavirus infection was conducted. 
Results. In 2024, an increase in the incidence of RVI was noted in almost all age groups, the risk group is children aged 1—3 years (52%), the number of children aged 1 year decreased by half compared to the previous year, while the number of children over 11 years old increased by 4.2 times. An increase in the proportion of severe forms of the disease was noted, including in older children. Extraintestinal manifestations were detected in 73.1% of children with RVI, which affected the nature of the course and outcome of the disease. 48.8% of convalescents were discharged from the hospital with residual effects, which subsequently required observation at the place of residence. 
Conclusion. Clinical and epidemiological features of RVI at the present stage indicate a continuing epidemiological problem. In this regard, the inclusion of vaccination against RVI in the national calendar of preventive vaccinations of the Russian Federation is justified and should be a priority.