Detection of Rotavirus Antigen in Stool Samples of Under-Five Children with Acute Diarrhoea in Enugu State

Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute gastroenteritis in children under five years globally, accounting for a substantial proportion of diarrhoea-related morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims to detect rotavirus antigen in stool samples collected from under-five children presenting with acute diarrhoea at selected primary healthcare centres in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A laboratory-based cross-sectional study will be conducted over six months, enrolling 300 children whose caregivers provide informed consent. Fresh stool samples will be processed using the SD BIOLINE Rotavirus rapid immunochromatographic test, with confirmatory analysis by ELISA. Sociodemographic data, feeding practices, and immunisation records, including rotavirus vaccine receipt, will be extracted through caregiver interviews. Data will be analysed using SPSS version 26, with Fisher's exact test applied to associations between rotavirus positivity and predictor variables. Studies from comparable Nigerian settings indicate antigen positivity rates of 20 to 40 percent among diarrhoeic children, underscoring the need for local surveillance. Findings will identify high-risk age groups and gaps in vaccine uptake, providing evidence for expanded rotavirus immunisation programmes in Enugu State. This study supports the goals of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency in reducing child mortality attributable to vaccine-preventable enteric infections. Keywords: rotavirus, acute diarrhoea, antigen detection, under-five children, Enugu State