by Tanya Dansky, M.D.

What is “rotavirus”?

This virus is the most common cause of diarrhea in children under 3 years old. Almost all children have had a rotavirus infection by the time they are 3 years old. 

How many kids are affected by this virus?  

Every winter, rotavirus causes outbreaks of diarrhea. Every year in the United States there are about 3.5 million cases of diarrhea and 110,000 hospitalizations for diarrhea and dehydration in kids less than 5 years old! Luckily, in the U.S., there are very few deaths from rotavirus. In other parts of the world this is a common cause of death in young children.

What are the symptoms?

Rotavirus causes almost the same symptoms in most kids. These include the following:

• FEVER 
• NAUSEA
• VOMITING
• ABDOMINAL CRAMPS
• DIARRHEA – large amounts of green watery stool, very foul smelling

Some children also have a stuffy nose and cough. Most older children and adults have immunity and will not get sick from rotavirus.

When should a parent worry about their child with this type of illness?

It is important to watch for signs of dehydration when a child has vomiting and/or diarrhea. Signs of dehydration include:

• THIRST
• LETHARGY
• SUNKEN EYES
• DRY MOUTH AND TONGUE
• DRY SKIN
• DECREASED URINATION / DRY DIAPERS IN INFANTS
• NO TEARS WITH CRYING

What can parents do if they suspect their child is getting dehydrated?

Children who are having diarrhea or vomiting should be given increased amounts of fluids. Most doctors recommend using oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte. Fluids should be given frequently and in small amounts. Fluids such as fruit juices and soda may make diarrhea worse. Cow’s milk may be hard to digest when children have diarrhea.

Call your primary care doctor if you are worried about your child being dehydrated. If children become severely dehydrated with symptoms such as lethargy, they may require medical care for intravenous fluids (Emergency Room or hospitalization). 

Is there any medication that can be given for rotavirus?

There are no medications that can be safely given to very young children with vomiting and diarrhea. The treatment is supportive care with acetaminophen (Tylenol®) for fevers and pain as well as increasing fluid intake to combat dehydration.

Can rotavirus be prevented?

Rotavirus is very contagious. It is spread through the “fecal oral route.” So good hand washing is the key to preventing spread of rotavirus. Hand washing is especially important after using the bathroom, changing a diaper and before eating. The virus is contagious even before the first signs of illness so even with good hand washing, most children acquire the infection before age 3 years.

For the most up to date information on Rotavirus vaccinations, please visit the CDC website.

Related Information: Influenza Update

© Children's Specialists of San Diego | Medical News Archive