OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the presence of Rotavirus A (RVA) in sewage matrices and surface waters from urban drainage channels in Belém, Pará, throughout 2021. This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study, with monthly sampling conducted at eight urban channels across the city.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Physicochemical parameters were determined, and organic flocculation protocols were applied for viral concentration in the samples, followed by laboratory testing for the detection and molecular characterization of RVA genotypes.

RESULTS:

A total of 96 samples were collected, of which 70 (72.9%) tested positive for RVA, with the highest frequency observed in March, April, June, and October. Sampling point PT01 exhibited the highest RVA prevalence (15.7%). No significant associations were observed between the environmental parameters evaluated and viral positivity, indicating the need for further investigation. Genotypic analysis revealed a predominance of genotypes G6 (81.8%) and G3 (18.2%) for the VP7 gene and P[8] (100%) for VP4.

CONCLUSION:

This study demonstrated the persistent circulation of RVA in urban channels in Belém, Pará, throughout 2021, revealing a scenario of pronounced sanitary vulnerability exacerbated by the lack of adequate sewage infrastructure and environmental degradation in the sampling areas.