Prevalence of Rotavirus Group A in Children Under Five Years Presenting with Acute Gastroenteritis in Eastern Nepal: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Acute gastroenteritis remains a major cause of illness and death among children under five years, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Rotavirus Group A is the leading viral cause of severe pediatric diarrhea and is commonly associated with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. Data on its prevalence and biochemical abnormalities in eastern Nepal are limited. This study primarily aimed to determine the prevalence of Rotavirus Group A among children under five years presenting with AGE and secondarily to evaluate electrolyte abnormalities in these children, including those who were Rotavirus-positive.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 223 children under five years presenting with acute gastroenteritis. Stool samples were tested for Rotavirus Group A using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.0. Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages. The prevalence of rotavirus infection was calculated as a percentage.

Results: The prevalence of Rotavirus Group A was 32 (14.35%). Additionally, 15 (6.73%) children had rotavirus–adenovirus co-infection. A seasonal peak occurred during winter (December–February), including 145 (65.47%) of cases. Among 223 children with AGE patients, electrolyte abnormalities were present in 156 (69.96%). Among 32 rotavirus-positive cases, 21 (65.62%) had electrolyte abnormalities, with hyponatremia being most common 9 (28.13%), followed by hypokalemia 5 (15.63%).

Conclusions: Rotavirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis among children under five years, particularly during winter, and is frequently associated with electrolyte disturbances. Early diagnosis, prompt electrolyte correction, and strengthened vaccination and surveillance programs are crucial to reducing morbidity and disease burden.