The rotavirus antigen test detects rotavirus in the feces. Rotavirus is the most common cause of infectious diarrhea in children. Children 3 months to 2 years old have the most severe symptoms.

This test is performed to diagnose a rotavirus infection.

There are many ways to collect stool samples. You can catch the stool on plastic wrap that is loosely placed over the toilet bowl and held in place by the toilet seat. Then you put the sample into a clean container. One type of test kit supplies a special toilet tissue to collect the sample, which is then placed in a container.

For infants and young children wearing diapers, try lining the diaper with plastic wrap. If the plastic wrap is positioned properly, it will help prevent urine and stool from mixing to provide a better sample.

The sample should be collected during the acute phase of the infection, which is the period in which you are having diarrhea.

The sample is taken to the laboratory for evaluation.

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

The test involves normal defecation.