Risk factors associated with adenovirus infection among children with Diarrhoea in Obodu local government area of Cross River State, Nigeria

Background: Enteric adenovirus (HAdV) is one of the most common enteroviruses associated with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children after rotavirus. It is considered the leading cause of death in children with diarrhoea worldwide. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of adenovirus among children less than 5 years with a history of diarrhoea admitted to Obudu Medical Center and to identify the risk factors associated with infection. This study is significant as it will provide baseline data on adenovirus prevalence in children with diarrhoea in Nigeria, which is essential for designing effective public health interventions and improving hygiene practices. Methods: From February 2019 to January 2020, fecal samples were collected from 163 children under 5 years with a history of diarrhoea admitted to Obudu Medical Center. Detection of adenovirus antigens in stool samples was done using a rapid chromatographic immunoassay. Data from each participant were collected through a questionnaire administered to parents or guardians. Chi-square and fisher exact probability tests were used to test for the observed differences between different proportions, with a P value <0.05 as an indicator of statistical significance. Results: Of 163 fecal samples were collected between February 2019 and January 2020 and analyzed using rapid chromatographic immunoassay. The prevalence of adenovirus was found to be 12.3%, with significant associations observed between infection rates and parental occupation, toilet system, and handwashing practices. The highest infection rate (17.8%) occurred in April 2019, while no cases were detected in August 2019. Conclusion: This study found that adenovirus infections occur in children under five years old with diarrhoea at Obudu Medical Center in Nigeria. Enhancing hygiene practices and improving sanitation infrastructure may help decrease the spread of adenovirus among children.