Pediatric Rotavirus A Infection Among 337,019 Participants Within Asia: A Pan‐Asian Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Abstract
Background Rotavirus A remains a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years of age across Asia, despite expanding vaccination programs. This study systematically synthesizes available evidence on rotavirus A detection among pediatric populations in Asian countries. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies reporting laboratory‐confirmed rotavirus A infection among children aged ≤ 5 years in Asia. A total of 111 studies comprising 337,019 tested children were included. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was used to estimate pooled proportions of rotavirus A positivity among tested children. Between‐study heterogeneity was assessed using the I 2 statistic. Results The pooled proportion of rotavirus A–positive cases among tested children in Asia was 24.7% (95% CI: 22.4%–27.1%). Substantial heterogeneity was observed across studies (I 2 = 99.42%, p < 0.001), reflecting wide variation in study populations, diagnostic methods, and healthcare settings. Higher test positivity rates were reported in studies from Saudi Arabia (49.3%), Iran (35.2%), Malaysia (33.0%), and India (29.4%), whereas lower proportions were observed in China (13.0%) and Pakistan (18.8%). Diagnostic modality and study design significantly influenced detection rates, with ELISA‐based and cross‐sectional studies reporting higher positivity. Conclusion Approximately one‐quarter of children tested for rotavirus A across Asia were laboratory‐positive, although estimates…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 337,019 participants or records.
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