Role of Norwalk Virus in Outbreaks of Nonbacterial Gastroenteritis

Abstract

Twenty-five separate outbreaks of nonbacterial gastrointestinal illnesses were studied serologically for evidence of infection with the Norwalk virus and the rotaviruses that affect humans. Eight of 25 outbreaks appeared to be related to the Norwalk virus. In one of the 25 outbreaks, there was evidence of rotavirus infection. These observations suggest that the Norwalk virus or serologically related agents play an important role in epidemic nonbacterial gastroenteritis in adults and older children.