Prevalence of Astrovirus Infection in Children in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of astrovirus involved in gastroenteritis among children in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A total of 144 stool samples were collected from diarrheic children in two major hospitals in the state. The stool samples were screened for possible detection of astroviruses, using Enzyme Linked Immunosor-bent assay. Twenty three (23) were found positive, representing 16%. Male children had higher prevalence compared to their female counterpart. Children within the age group 0 – 1 year recorded higher 8.30% prevalence compared to other age groups. It was observed that children that drink water from well had more prevalence than those that drink water from other sources. Chi square test revealed no significant relationship between sex, age, water sources and the rate of infection. More awareness on the route of transmission should be intensified.