What is the main diagnostic method for rotavirus infection?

The primary diagnostic method for rotavirus infection is through the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), specifically using a bead test format. This method detects rotavirus antigens in stool samples, which is crucial since rotavirus is a leading cause of gastroenteritis in children and manifests primarily through severe diarrhea. The ELISA test is favored because it is sensitive, specific, and relatively quick, allowing for the identification of the virus in clinical settings.

In contrast, other methods such as Western blotting, while useful in some research contexts, are not standard for routine diagnosis of viral infections like rotavirus. Urine culture is not applicable for diagnosing rotavirus, as the virus primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract and does not typically appear in urine. Complete blood count (CBC) can provide some information on the patient’s overall health status but is not used for directly diagnosing rotavirus infections. Thus, the ELISA test is the preferred approach for confirming the presence of rotavirus in affected individuals.