Rotavirus:
Rotavirus is a non-enveloped, double-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Reoviridae family. It has a distinctive wheel-like appearance when viewed under an electron microscope, which is the origin of its name (“rota” means “wheel” in Latin). Rotavirus is highly stable in the environment and is the most common cause of severe diarrheal disease in infants and young children worldwide.

Diseases caused by Rotavirus:
Rotavirus infection is characterized by severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. This can lead to rapid dehydration, which is the most dangerous complication, particularly in young children. The virus primarily targets and damages the cells in the small intestine, impairing the body’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. The infection is highly contagious and is transmitted through the fecal-oral route.

Detection and Diagnosis of Rotavirus:
Diagnosis of Rotavirus is typically based on clinical symptoms but can be confirmed through laboratory testing of stool samples. Immunoassays, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) like the assays available here, are commonly used to detect Rotavirus antigens in the stool. Rapid diagnostic tests are also widely available for quick results. Prevention is highly effective through the use of oral Rotavirus vaccines, which are now part of routine childhood immunization schedules in many countries.