Reverse transcriptase-PCR for the detection of Astrovirus in children with nosocomial acute diarrhoea in Naples, Italy.

Objective: This study was made to determine the incidence of nosocomial viral gastroenteritis in all children aged 0-4 years, admitted in the Pediatric Hospital over a 3-year period.

Methods: Astrovirus was detected by reverse transcriptase-PCR; routine diagnostic tests for Rotavirus, Adenovirus, and common bacterial pathogens were carried out on all samples.

Results: Of the 460 children with nosocomial diarrhea, 23 harbored Astrovirus (5%).