Rotavirus-associated diarrhoea in children in a refugee camp in Jordan

L F Nimri1, S Hijazi

  • 1Department of Biological Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbed, Jordan.

Insights

Rotavirus diarrhea is prevalent in young Jordanian children, especially during summer. Unsafe water for formula and lower maternal education are key risk factors.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrheal disease globally.
  • Data on rotavirus prevalence and risk factors in Jordanian children, particularly refugees, is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of rotavirus-associated diarrhea in children under 5 years old in northern Jordan.
  • To identify environmental and behavioral risk factors associated with rotavirus infection in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study was conducted with 220 children diagnosed with gastroenteritis (cases) and matched controls.
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to detect rotavirus antigens in stool samples.

Main Results:

  • Rotavirus antigens were detected in 35% of cases and 3% of controls.
  • Prevalence was significantly higher (62%) in children under 24 months (OR = 2.4).
  • Rotavirus diarrhea peaked during summer months (June-August).

Conclusions:

  • Rotavirus is a significant cause of acute diarrhea in young Jordanian refugee children.
  • Infant feeding practices (using unboiled tap water for formula) and lower maternal education levels are identified risk factors.

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