What is the Rotavirus in Stool by PCR test?

The Rotavirus in Stool by PCR test detects rotavirus genetic material in a stool sample using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. PCR is highly sensitive and specific, allowing accurate identification of rotavirus even when viral levels are low.

Rotavirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, particularly in infants and young children, but it can also affect adults. Infection commonly causes diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration.

This test is used to confirm rotavirus infection and differentiate it from other causes of viral or bacterial gastroenteritis.

Why do I need a test for Rotavirus in Stool?

Symptoms of gastroenteritis can be caused by many different pathogens. Identifying rotavirus helps guide appropriate management, infection control, and reassurance—particularly in vulnerable groups such as young children, older adults, or immunocompromised individuals.

Testing is especially useful when symptoms are severe, prolonged, or occur in outbreaks.

You may benefit from this test if you or your child experience:

• Acute watery diarrhoea

• Vomiting and nausea

• Fever with gastrointestinal symptoms

• Signs of dehydration

• Gastroenteritis in infants or toddlers

• Outbreaks in nurseries or households

• Persistent diarrhoea without clear cause

• Monitoring infectious causes of gut symptoms

Benefits of the Rotavirus Stool PCR test

1. Highly accurate viral detection
   PCR identifies rotavirus with high sensitivity.

2. Differentiates viral from bacterial infection
   Helps avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.

3. Useful in paediatric gastroenteritis
   Common cause of diarrhoea in young children.

4. Supports infection control measures
   Important in outbreak settings.

5. Detects infection early
   Identifies virus even at low levels.

6. Non-invasive testing method
   Requires only a stool sample.

7. Clarifies cause of persistent symptoms
   Useful when symptoms do not resolve quickly.

8. Supports public health and household management
   Helps reduce spread to others.

Step-by-step – how we offer Rotavirus Stool PCR testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Collect or provide a stool sample following instructions

• Sample is securely packaged

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for PCR analysis

At-home or postal testing

• Receive a stool collection kit

• Collect the sample at home

• Securely package according to instructions

• Return the sample via arranged drop-off or collection

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Rotavirus Stool PCR results explained

Rotavirus not detected

A negative result suggests rotavirus is not the cause of symptoms. Other viral, bacterial, or non-infectious causes may need consideration.

Clinical symptoms and additional tests may guide further investigation.

UK reference interpretation:

• Negative: Rotavirus not detected

Rotavirus detected

A positive result confirms rotavirus infection as the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms. This supports a diagnosis of viral gastroenteritis.

Management focuses on hydration and supportive care.

UK reference interpretation:

• Positive: Rotavirus detected

Low-level detection

Low viral levels may be seen early or late in infection. Results should be interpreted alongside symptom severity and clinical context.

UK reference interpretation:

• Low positive: Rotavirus detected at low level