Hospital-Based Surveillance for Rotavirus Gastroenteritis using Molecular Testing and Immunoassay During the 2011 Season in Botswana

We describe rotavirus testing and clinical characteristics for children admitted with acute gastroenteritis during Botswana's 2011 rotavirus season. The rotavirus season extended from June to October with rotavirus-specific case fatality being 2.8%. Using molecular testing as reference, the immunochromatographic test had a sensitivity of 76.5% and specificity of 68.0%. Rotavirus vaccine may significantly reduce childhood morbidity and mortality in Botswana.