Gastroenteritis Outbreak Caused by Sapovirus in Taiwan
Author Information
Author(s): Wu Fang-Tzy, Oka Tomoichiro, Takeda Naokazu, Katayama Kazuhiko, Hansman Grant S., Muo Chih-Hsin, Liang Shy-Yuan, Hung Ching-Hsiang, Jiang Donald Dah-Shyong, Chang Jui Hsin, Yang Jyh-Yuan, Wu Ho-Sheng, Yang Chen-Fu
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control, Taipei, Taiwan
Hypothesis
The virulence or prevalence of sapovirus may be increasing, affecting both children and adults.
Conclusion
The outbreak was caused by a single strain of sapovirus, indicating a need for increased surveillance.
Supporting Evidence
- 55 students showed symptoms of gastroenteritis during the outbreak.
- Stool specimens were negative for bacteria, rotavirus, and norovirus.
- 7 out of 8 stool specimens tested positive for sapovirus using RT-PCR.
- The outbreak was caused by a single sapovirus strain with 100% nucleotide identity.
- Symptoms included diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain among the affected students.
Takeaway
A group of college students in Taiwan got sick from a virus called sapovirus, which can cause stomach problems.
Methodology
Stool specimens were collected and tested using electron microscopy and RT-PCR to identify the sapovirus.
Limitations
The source of contamination was not determined, and the study only included symptomatic students.
Participant Demographics
College students in northern Taiwan.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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