Rotavirus: The Hidden Enemy Behind Severe Childhood Diarrhea

Rotavirus: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention

Most Children Experience It at Least Once

Most children experience at least one episode of rotavirus infection by the age of three. Although rotavirus infection can be distressing, its treatment is relatively simple and mainly involves increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be required.

Symptoms of Rotavirus

Rotavirus can be present in a person's stool several days before symptoms appear and up to 10 days after the illness subsides. The symptoms of rotavirus infection include:

General Symptoms of Rotavirus

The infection typically starts with:

Fever
Watery diarrhea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain

These symptoms last 3 to 8 days and are more severe in children. In adults, rotavirus infection may cause mild symptoms or be completely asymptomatic.

Symptoms That Require a Doctor’s Visit

Parents should seek medical attention if their child experiences:

Severe bloody diarrhea
Persistent vomiting for more than 3 hours
High fever (39°C or above)
Severe abdominal pain
Signs of dehydration, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Crying without tears
- Decreased urination
- Drowsiness or unusual sleepiness

Causes and Risk Factors of Rotavirus

Rotavirus spreads easily through hand-to-mouth contact during the infection period. If an infected person does not wash their hands properly after touching contaminated fluids, they can pass the virus to others or to surfaces that others touch.

Since there are multiple strains of rotavirus, a person can be infected more than once in their lifetime. However, subsequent infections tend to be less severe.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Rotavirus infection is more common in:

Children between 4 months and 2 years old, especially those in daycare centers
Winter and spring seasons, when infections are most prevalent

Complications of Rotavirus

A severe rotavirus infection can lead to dehydration, particularly in young children. If left untreated, dehydration can be life-threatening.

Diagnosis of Rotavirus

Rotavirus infection is diagnosed by analyzing a stool sample from the patient.

Treatment of Rotavirus

There is no specific treatment for rotavirus. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective against it. The illness typically resolves on its own within 3 to 8 days. The main focus of treatment is preventing dehydration.

Managing Symptoms

Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
For children experiencing prolonged diarrhea, oral rehydration solutions containing electrolytes are recommended.
In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary.

Preventing Rotavirus Infection

To reduce the risk of rotavirus infection, frequent handwashing with soap is essential, especially after using the bathroom.

Rotavirus Vaccines

Two vaccines are available to prevent rotavirus infection:

✔ RotaTeq:

Given orally in three doses at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.
Not approved for use in older children or adults.

✔ Rotarix:

Given orally in two doses at 2 and 4 months of age.

⚠ If a child experiences symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in the stool after receiving the vaccine, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Conclusion

Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects young children, causing severe diarrhea and dehydration. While there is no specific cure, proper hydration and supportive care are crucial for recovery. Vaccination remains the best preventive measure to protect children from severe infection.