Gastrointestinal Norovirus Infections at the Mohammed V Military Teaching Hospital, Morocco

M. R. Tagajdid; L. Fathi; M. R. Znady; R. Slimani; S. Ait Hamou; M. Meftah El Khair; S. El korchi; R. Abbi; A. laraqui; H. Annaz; B. El mchichi; N. Touil; M. Elqatni; A. Reggad; Z. Elkasmi; A. El Hamsas Elyoubi; D. Radallah; K. Ennibi; I. Lahlou Amin

doi:10.18535/ijmsci/v11i.12.01

Abstract

Background: Viral gastroenteritis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In Morocco, epidemiological data on Norovirus remain scarce. This study aims to assess the prevalence of Norovirus and identify potential risk factors associated with infection.

Patients and Methods: From February 1 to June 13, 2024, 94 stool samples were tested for Norovirus using real-time RT-PCR. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected via a structured information sheet.

Results: The overall Norovirus infection rate was 8.5%. Most cases were among individuals aged 25-40 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.67. Predominant symptoms included diarrhea (100%), abdominal pain (100%), nausea (75%), fever (62%), vomiting (61.5%), and dehydration (37.5%). Key risk factors included consuming non-homemade meals (75%) and poor hygiene, such as irregular hand washing (25%).

Conclusion: This study highlights that Norovirus is a common cause of acute gastroenteritis in Morocco, highlighting the need to include other enteric viruses in the surveillance system.

Keywords

Norovirus
Gastroenteritis
Morocco
Risk factor