In 1998 in 33 laboratories in the Czech Republic 1 223 rotavirus infections were revealed. The largest number of positive infections was recorded in children under the age of 3 years. The most frequent diagnostic procedure is latex agglutination which was used in 29 laboratories. In six departments the positive findings are reported directly to the appropriate epidemiological department. In the information system of the hygiene service, Epidat, in 1998 239 cases were reported, i.e. 19.5% of those confirmed by laboratory tests. The authors discuss the contemporary impact of rotavirus infections in the Czech Republic.

        Key words: rotavirus infections – laboratory surveillance.