Objective: The frequency of viral gastroenteritis is gradually increasing especially in developing countries. Rotavirus and enteric adenoviruses are the most common viral agents of acute gastroenteritis in children. The epidemiology of rotavirus and adenovirus infections is not well known in our region. The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency of rotavirus and adenovirus among acute gastroenteritis cases in our region.

Materials and Methods: A total of 200 children (age 0-5 years old) who applied to Yüzüncü Yıl University, Medical Faculty Hospital, Van, Turkey between January 1-December 30, 2009, with the complaints of acute gastroenteritis, were investigated for the presence of various agents of gastroenteritis. One hundred and eight stool specimens found negative for bacterial and parasitic agents, were evaluated for rotavirus and adenovirus antigens using latex agglutination method.

Results: Viral antigens were detected in 80 (44%) out of 180 specimens and no viral antigens were detected in 100 (56%) patients. Among the positive specimens, rotavirus (n=74, 41%) and adenovirus antigens (n= 30; 17%) were detected. In 24 (13%) patients both adenovirus and rotavirus positivity was revealed. Rates of rotavirus, and adenovirus positivity were 69, and 70% in 0-2 age group, respectively. The highest rate of positivity for rotavirus was detected in June (71%), July (59%) and May (56%) whereas for adenovirus in June (41%), March (33%), and July and November (24%).

Conclusion: The prevalence of rotavirus and adenovirus in our region was found to be relatively high. Additionally it is important to know that rotavirus and adenovirus are frequent causes of gastroenteritis among children in our region between spring and summer.