Adeno and Rota viruses in stool

Stool analysis for the detection of Rotavirus and/or Adenovirus is a diagnostic procedure performed at IntroLab laboratory in Vrachar. Rotavirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old, while Adenovirus is the second most common cause of viral enteritis in children under 2 years old. Since Adeno and Rota viruses can often be found in stool, it is very important to determine their presence in time.

When might Adeno and Rota viruses be present in the stool?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or if you notice frequent, unformed stools and elevated temperature in yourself or your child, it is recommended to perform a stool analysis for the presence of Rotavirus and Adenovirus.

These viruses are transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or through food. Additionally, Rotavirus and Adenovirus can survive on surfaces such as objects, toys, and hands.

Infections with these viruses are usually mild in adults but can be more serious in children, accompanied by vomiting, frequent, unformed stools, and elevated temperature. They are particularly common in children’s groups and hospitals due to droplet transmission, i.e., the spread of tiny saliva droplets in the air when an infected person talks, sneezes, or coughs.

How is the sampling done?

For the analysis of Rotavirus and Adenovirus, a sample is taken from fresh unformed stool, in the amount of one coffee spoon, which is collected in a special stool container. It is important that the sample is not mixed with urine or water from the toilet bowl. After collection, samples should be brought to the laboratory as soon as possible for testing.

If necessary, the stool sample can be kept at a temperature of 2-8°C for up to 2 days, or it can be frozen at -20°C for a longer period. These storage measures ensure the preservation of the stool sample’s integrity and expected testing results.

Interpretation of results

The results of the test for Rotavirus and Adenovirus analysis are reported as positive or negative. However, it is important to note that a negative test result does not exclude the possibility of infection with Rotavirus or Adenovirus. In certain situations, the infection may be present even though it is not detected by the test. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor who will consider other factors when making a diagnosis.