Genome Sequencing and Molecular Epidemiology of Norovirus. Norovirus

Norovirus (NoV) is estimated to cause almost half of all global cases of gastroenteritis, a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US, accounting for 58% of all cases. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children < 5 years of age in developing countries and estimated to cause ~1.5 million deaths each year globally. It is listed as Category B biodefense pathogens by NIH, and is on the EPA “candidate contaminant list” for the regulation of drinking water, as it is frequently associated with major. The role of NoV as a causative agent of gastroenteritis in Africa is not well studied. However, outbreaks and sporadic cases of NoV associated gastroenteritis have been reported from some African countries. No published data is available about the epidemiology of NoV infection in Ethiopia. This project aims to sequence and characterize Norovirus from fecal specimens from gastroenteritis outbreaks or sporadic cases in Ethiopia. We also aim to sequence some historical human and animal NoV samples from the USA. As part of this project, we will conduct molecular biological surveys of the Noroviruses from clinical specimens, animal feces, food and water to identify and compare the current prevalence and genetic diversity of NoVs in USA and Ethiopia.