Seroprevalence of Norwalk virus and Mexico virus in Chilean individuals: assessment of independent risk factors for antibody acquisition

Clin Infect Dis. 1998 Oct;27(4):789-95. doi: 10.1086/514949.

Abstract

Norwalk virus (NV) and Mexico (MX) virus represent distinct genetic clusters within the same genus of human caliciviruses (CVs), a major cause of diarrhea in adults. The magnitude and potential risk factors of human CV infection in populations from Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile, were assessed. Individuals (n = 1,864) gave a blood sample and answered a questionnaire during a household survey. Sera were tested for antibody to NV and MX virus with use of recombinant capsid antigens. Overall, NV and MX virus seroprevalence rates were 83% and 91% in Santiago vs. 67% and 90% in Punta Arenas, respectively (P < .001 for NV virus). Lower socioeconomic status and increasing age were risk factors for infection with both viruses (P < .001). Consumption of seafood, consumption of vegetables, and child care center attendance were population risk factors for infection, but the association of a factor with a virus depended on the city. Prevention of human CV infections will require individual assessment in different communities.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Antibodies, Viral / blood
  • Caliciviridae
  • Caliciviridae Infections / blood
  • Caliciviridae Infections / epidemiology*
  • Caliciviridae Infections / immunology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chile / epidemiology
  • Cities / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Norwalk virus* / immunology
  • Risk Factors
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Social Class

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral