OVERVIEW
Nonenveloped, double-stranded RNA virus; rota (Latin; “wheel”) for shape of the capsid; genus within the family Reoviridae; relatively resistant to environmental destruction (acid and lipid solvents); unique double-capsid protects virus from inactivation in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Wide host range, identified in almost every species investigated
Most significant cause of severe gastro-enteritis in young children (< 2 years) and animals throughout the world
Transmission—fecal–oral contamination
Infection—affects mature epithelial cells on luminal tips of the intestinal villi; causes swelling, degeneration, and desquamation; denuded villi contract; results in villous atrophy with loss of absorptive capability and loss of brush border enzymes (e.g., disaccharidases); leads to osmotic diarrhea
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