SUMMARY
Background. Acute intestinal infections of viral etiology represent a significant public health concern, particularly in children. This study aimed to characterize the etiological structure and epidemiological features of viral intestinal infections among pediatric patients in Baku, Azerbaijan. Material and methods. A total of 411 children aged 0–18 years admitted with intestinal infection of unknown etiology were examined between 2018 and 2020. Fecal samples were tested for rotavirus group A, adenovirus serotypes 40/41, and human astrovirus (HAstV) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; R-Biopharm RIDASCREEN, Germany). Descriptive, evaluative, and analytical epidemiological methods were applied. Results. Intestinal viruses were identified in 56.2% of patients. Monoviral infection was detected in 32.6% of children, and mixed viral infection in 23.6%. Among monoviral cases, adenovirus 40/41 predominated (38.8%), followed by HAstV (36.6%) and rotavirus group A (24.6%). The highest overall detection rate was observed in the 1–3 year age group (73.6%). Boys showed slightly higher infection rates than girls. Seasonal analysis revealed rotavirus predominance in spring-summer, adenovirus in summer, and astrovirus in winter. The epidemic process for each pathogen demonstrated distinct cyclical patterns throughout the year. Conclusions. Adenovirus serotypes 40/41 were the leading etiologic agent of viral intestinal infections in Baku city children. Children aged 1–3 years were most affected. These findings underscore the need for enhanced viral surveillance and targeted preventive strategies in pediatric populations.
Keywords: acute intestinal infections, rotavirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

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