Molecular Epidemiology of Viral Enteric Pathogens Associated with Acute Diarrhoea in Children under 5 years in Ibadan Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Diarrheal diseases are a major cause of death in children under five, responsible for approximately 9% of global child mortality. This study investigated the molecular epidemiology of viral enteric pathogens linked to acute diarrhea in children under five in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Method: 273 children with symptoms of acute diarrhea were enrolled. Fresh stool samples were collected in sterile, RNase-free containers, preserved at –80°C, and analyzed using molecular techniques, including nucleic acid extraction and Real-Time PCR amplification.

Results: The results showed Adenovirus as the most frequently detected virus (24.5%), followed by Norovirus Type 2 (5.9%) and Type 1 (2.9%). Mixed infections accounted for 2.2% of cases, while Rotavirus Group A, Sapporo Virus, and Astrovirus were not detected. Infections were most prevalent in children aged 0–1 year, particularly for Adenovirus (49.2%) and Norovirus Type 2 (68.8%). Statistically significant age-related differences were observed for Adenovirus, Norovirus Type 1, and mixed infections (p = 0.0001). Although males had slightly higher rates of Norovirus Types 1 and 2 and mixed infections, these differences were not statistically significant. Water source revealed a higher prevalence of Adenovirus in children using tap water (55.2%), while Norovirus Type 2 and mixed infections were more common among borehole water users (43.8% and 66.6%, respectively). Though not statistically significant, some associations approached significance.

Conclusion: The study highlights the persistent impact of environmental contamination and inadequate vaccine coverage, emphasizing strengthening routine immunization efforts for children under two years of age.