An Emergence of Equine-Like G3P[8] Rotaviruses Associated with Acute Gastroenteritis in Hospitalized Children in Thailand, 2016 ?2018

Rotavirus A (RVA) is recognized as a major etiology responsible for the development of acute gastroenteritis in children worldwide. The purpose present study was to perform molecular characterization RVA. total 323 stool specimens collected from hospitalized with Chiang Rai, Thailand, 2016-2018 were identified G- and P-genotypes through RT-PCR analysis. RVA more prevalent 2017-2018 (37.8%) than 2016-2017 (23.2%). seasonal peak occurred March April. G3P[8] predominant (90.6%) (58.6%). Other genotypes including G1P[8], G8P[8], G9P[8], mixed infections also identified. strains clustered together same lineage other novel human equine-like previously multiple countries presented genotype 2 constellation (G3-P[8]-I2-R2-C2-M2-A2-N2-T2-E2-H2). Several amino acid differences observed antigenic epitopes VP7 VP8* capsid proteins compared those vaccine strains. homology modeling evidently exhibited that these residue on surface-exposed area structure. emergence Thailand indicates rapid spread animal gene segments. Continuous surveillance essential monitor genetic diversity, which will provide useful information selecting rotavirus develop safe effective efficacious against variants.