Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, especially in babies and young children. The main danger is dehydration from losing too much fluid. Older children and adults can also become infected, although illness in adults is often milder. Infection can happen more than once, and a child can spread the virus before symptoms start.
Prevention: Vaccine
Symptoms
- Frequent watery diarrhea and vomiting
- Fever and stomach pain
- Reduced appetite
- Dehydration: less urine, a dry mouth, few tears, or unusual sleepiness
Transmission
- Virus from stool reaching the mouth on unwashed hands
- Touching contaminated toys or surfaces and then the mouth
- Eating contaminated food
Prevention
Vaccination helps protect children against rotavirus disease. Handwashing and cleaning are also important, particularly after diaper changes and before food preparation, but hygiene alone does not fully control its spread.
Diagnosis and care
Care focuses on replacing fluids, often with an oral rehydration solution. Antibiotics do not treat the virus. Seek medical care for dehydration, especially in a baby or young child; severe cases may need hospital treatment.
Source
- About Rotavirus
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: April 22, 2024
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
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