Sapovirus: A Prevalent Culprit for Childhood Gastroenteritis

The world is witnessing a surge in the viral infections leading to a challenging situation for the healthcare fraternity. To combat these challenges, we need to be prepared for the re-emerging infections that might be lethal to human life. For this we need to identify and manage the factors that are responsible for this remerging persistence of these viruses. In this chapter, we will discuss Sapovirus, a member of viral family caliciviridae, responsible for several cases of childhood gastroenteritis. Caliciviridae family consists of more than 10 extensively studied viral genera which includes lagovirus, vesivirus, sapovirus, norovirus, nebovirus, etc. Viruses of this family are associated with childhood diarrhoea and gastroenteritis (inflammation of stomach and intestine), especially sapovirus (SaV) and norovirus (NoV). SaV infects humans, pigs, bats, dogs, and rats. In 1976, SaV particles were initially detected in human stool samples in the United Kingdom, marking the first identification of this pathogen as a cause of gastroenteritis. Most common symptoms of infection include vomiting and diarrhoea. They are considered highly contagious and are transmitted through the faecal-oral route. Therefore, practicing clean habits and staying cautious in avoiding the infected surroundings hold the key in preventing SaV infection. These viruses have led to many outbreaks of SaV-induced diarrhoea. The diagnosis of viral infection is made easier due to the development of advanced diagnostic techniques like ELISA, RT-PCR, genome sequencers, etc., to provide better management of virus-induced symptoms. In this chapter, we will review the nature, emergence, complications of SaV infection and advancements in its prevention, and cure.