Clinical significanceClinical indicationsSample typePreparation

Clinical significance
Rotaviruses are RNA viruses named after their characteristic wheel-like appearance under the electron microscope. Rotavirus gastroenteritis is the most common cause of severe gastroenteritis in children and babies. During the winter, 50% of paediatric hospital admissions are due to rotavirus gastroenteritis. Patients present with watery diarrhoea, fever and vomiting.
Microbiological diagnosis is based on detecting a virus-specific antigen in the stool using rapid immunochromatographic techniques with good sensitivity and specificity.

Clinical indications
Enteritis

Sample type
Stool sample.

Preparation
The stool must be passed naturally, without the use of suppositories and/or laxatives.