Definition

Rotavirus is a viral infection of the digestive [2] tract. In the United States, rotavirus is the most common cause of severe diarrhea [3] in children.

Causes

Rotavirus is passed easily from person to person via hand-to-mouth contact from infected stool. Rotavirus can also be contracted by touching any object or surface that has come into contact with infected stool.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

The following demographics are at an increased risk for contracting rotavirus:

• Children between the ages of 4-24 months
• Children who attend daycare or any public childcare setting
• Older adults who care for young children

Symptoms

Symptoms of rotavirus may vary from person to person, from no symptoms, to mild-to-severe. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea [3] that lasts from 3-9 days
• Abdominal pain [4]

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical [5] history and perform a physical exam to diagnose rotavirus. Tests may include the following to confirm the diagnosis:

• Stool sample analysis

Treatment

Rotavirus does not respond to antibiotics. There is no treatment for rotavirus, but treatments are required to prevent dehydration [6] . These treatments include:

• Rehydration fluids—Rehydration fluids include children's drinks, such as Pedialyte, formulated to restore minerals lost due to the diarrhea.
• Intravenous fluids—If dehydration is severe, intravenous fluids administered at the hospital may be required to restore the body's fluids lost during the infection.

Prevention

Good hygiene is the best way to help reduce the spread of rotavirus, but it is not 100% effective and does not kill the virus. To help reduce your chances of getting rotavirus, take the following steps:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Always wash hands:
  
  • After using the toilet
  • After changing a baby's diaper or helping a child use the toilet
  • Before handling or preparing food.
• Get a rotavirus vaccination [7] for babies and young children.