AN EXTENSIVE ROTAVIRUS OUTBREAK IN ABORIGINAL INFANTS IN CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

Abstract

Faecal specimens were obtained from 92 Aboriginal infants admitted to Alice Springs Hospital during an extensive outbreak of gastroenteritis in the surrounding area in July, 1976. Specimens were examined for potentially pathogenic viruses, bacteria and parasites. Rotavirus proved to be by far the most common potential pathogen, being detected in 54% of specimens.