Prevalence and Seasonal Dispersion of Rotavirus for Children between 0 and 5 Years Old

Abstract

Rotavirus is one of the most important viral agents during childhood. This study has focused on determination of rotavirus infection prevalence in children 0 to 5 years old who suffered from acute gastroenteritis in the specified region. This study was conducted using the stool specimens of 188 children. Rotavirus antigen was detected using the ELISA technique. Rotavirus positivity was detected in 38 (20%). Rotavirus is active in the winter-autumn season in Turkey. As a result, epidemiologic monitoring of infection is considered to be an important factor in the etiology of acute gastroenteritis. In this study, very important data that contribute to epidemiologic studies not only in Turkey but also all around the world were obtained.