Molecular epidemiology of rotavirus in black infants in South Africa.

The molecular epidemiology of rotavirus infections in black infants in Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa, was investigated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Between 1983 and 1986, 14 different RNA electrophoretic patterns were observed for children with acute gastroenteritis. These electrophoretypes showed a sequential pattern of appearance, with a limited number being present at any one time. In contrast, for neonates only one RNA electrophoretype was detected, which persisted for at least 3 years.