A study of rotavirus infection in acute diarrhoea in children less than 5 years of age

Abstract

: Diarrhoeal diseases account for an estimated 1.5 million deaths globally every year making it the second leading cause of childhood mortality. In India 1 out of every 250 children die of rotavirus diarrhea each year.: To find out the incidence of rotavirus infection in acute diarrhoeal cases in children under 5 years of age.: A prospective study was conducted on 100 non repetetive stool samples of Children under 5 years of age, presenting with acute diarrhea and hospitalized in the pediatric ward, during December 2015 to November 2016. Stool samples were processed according to premier rotaclone enzyme immunoassay protocol for the detection of rotavirus antigen, adhering to standard laboratory precautions.: The incidence of acute diarrhoeal diseases was 5.86% in our setting. was detected in 29% cases by ELISA method.The antigen detection by EIA is a reliable test, as it is quantitative and also has high sensitivity and specificity. Hence, can be routinely employed to prevent major morbidity and mortality among children, especially less than 5 years of age.