Rotavirus C (RVC) is a double‑stranded RNA virus species within the genus Rotavirus (family Sedoreoviridae). Its genome consists of eleven segments and the virus infects humans and a range of animals.
Virology and host range
RVC belongs to group C rotaviruses defined by antigenic properties of the VP6 protein. The virus has a triple‑layered capsid and, like other rotaviruses, encodes six structural and several non‑structural proteins. Pigs, cattle, dogs and ferrets are important animal hosts, and human infections are usually sporadic. RVC was first confirmed in piglets with diarrhoea in the United States in 1980 and later detected in Japan, Russia, Australia and India. A few years later, the virus was identified in human infants with gastroenteritis. Because wild RVC strains are difficult to culture in the laboratory and complete genome sequences are limited, classification relies on partial sequences and the VP4 (P genotype) and VP7 (G genotype) proteins. Phylogenetic analyses show strict host‑species specificity of the P genotype; current human RVC infections are exclusively caused by genotype P[2]. Infection rates in humans have fallen from about 3% before 2009 to about 1%. In animals, however, infection rates have risen from 10% to 25%.
Global presence and host‑specific patterns
Human RVC infections are generally sporadic and often occur in small outbreaks within families. Symptoms resemble other rotavirus infections, with watery diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration in infants. Experimental studies suggest that cross‑immunity between RVC genotypes is limited because of diversity in VP4 and VP7. Vaccines used against group A rotaviruses do not protect against RVC, and no specific vaccine is available. Surveillance data show that P[2] strains circulate in humans, whereas pigs harbour diverse P[4] and P[5] genotypes. Increased detection of RVC in pig herds worldwide and rising infection rates highlight the importance of monitoring animal reservoirs. Preventive measures include good hygiene in animal husbandry and prompt management of diarrhoeal illness in children.
Rotavirus C is less prominent than group A rotaviruses but remains an important pathogen of both humans and animals. Understanding its host‑specific genotypes and improving surveillance will help reduce disease burden and mitigate the risk of cross‑species transmission.
Related Terms: Rotavirus A, Rotavirus B, Rotavirus H, Sedoreoviridae, Gastroenteritis