Surveillance of Pathogens Causing Viral Diarrhea in Yichang in 2022 and 2023

Abstract – Introduction: This study compared the pattern of viral diarrhea in Yichang City, China, in 2022 and 2023 before and after the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions. Methods: Stool samples were collected from outpatients and inpatients with diarrhea at three hospitals in Yichang from January to October 2022 and January to June 2023, before and after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, respectively. Samples were simultaneously tested for 13 types of enteric virus using a rapid multiplex assay that could simultaneously detect 13 types of five enteric viruses, including rotavirus (groups A, B, C, and H), norovirus (I, II, IV, VII, VIII, and IX), adenovirus, sapovirus, and astrovirus. Results: Testing of 458 samples showed variations in pathogen distribution by age group. Specifically, there was an increase in the number of viral infections among adults, a decrease among children, an increase in coinfection rates, and variability in virus positivity in 2023 compared to 2022. Conclusions: The multiplex assay method improved diagnostic efficiency and provided epidemiological insights. This study highlights the impact of public health transitions on viral diarrhea epidemiology, underscoring the need for ongoing surveillance and adaptable strategies in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era.