Rotavirus Diarrhea and its Determinants Among Under-Five Children Admitted in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Southern Haryana, India

Abstract

To estimate the prevalence of rotavirus diarrhea and its demographic, social, and clinical characteristics among children less than five years of age admitted in a rural tertiary care institute. This prospective hospital-based observational study was carried out during February 2016 to June 2019. Diarrheal admissions of children aged 0–59 mo were screened and those who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical information was collected using a case report form. Stool samples were collected within 48 h of admission and transported in cold chain every month to the referral laboratory situated at Christian Medical College for testing. Among the children admitted with acute diarrhea, 148 (11.02%) were positive for rotavirus in the study. As per Vesikari scoring system, around three fourth (76.2%) of children were having severe or very severe diarrhea. Severity of diarrhea was more among rotavirus positive cases as assessed by the Vesikari scoring system. The rotavirus diarrhea showed a peak during November to February. Rotavirus diarrhea is an issue of public health importance, particularly due to its association with the severe diarrhea. As evidenced from similar settings in the world, rotavirus vaccine introduction and increased coverage is the most important strategy towards prevention and control of rotavirus diarrhea.