Outbreak of G2P[4] rotavirus gastroenteritis in a retirement community, Brazil, 2015: An important public health risk?

The present study described a group A rotavirus (RVA) outbreak in an age-care facility in Brazil, using epidemiologic and molecular diagnostic methods. A descriptive clinical, epidemiological and environmental investigation was conducted. Stool samples were collected and screened for RVA, Norovirus (NoV), Enteric Adenovirus 40/41 (AdV 40/41) and Astrovirus (AstV) using ELISA, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, electron microscopy and sequencing methods. Outbreak occurred during 26th–29th October, 2015; 28 individuals affected (22 residents; 6 staff). The attack rate was 25.9% and 8.5% among residents (median-age: 85.5 years) and staff (median-age: 28 years), respectively. Female staff was identified as the index case. RVA G2P[4] genotype was detected in 87.5% (7/8). Genetic analysis demonstrated that the outbreak involved one single strain, suggesting a common-source infection. RVA should be considered during outbreaks investigations in residential facilities, and raise the question if the current licensed RVA vaccines for children could also be helpful for the elderly. •Monitoring viral gastroenteritis pathogens in aged-care facilities.•Group A Rotavirus can represent an important public health issue among elderly.•Institutionalized elderly are susceptible to the same types of Group A Rotavirus as children.•Current licensed Group A Rotavirus vaccines for children could also be helpful for the elderly.