Astrovirus (PCR)

Stool or stomach contents

Human astroviruses are a common cause of gastroenteritis in young children. They cause similar symptoms to the other pathogens described, for example vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and abdominal pain. There is often a peak of this disease during the winter months. Astrovirus is spread mainly through poor hygienic conditions, with infection occurring through contaminated water and food.