ROTAVIRUS

• This is a virus that causes episodes of diarrhoea and vomiting in young children.
• Most cases of viral gastroenteritis( diarrhoea and vomiting) are self-limiting ( body recovers without intervention), but certain in certain cases it can cause prolonged periods of uneasiness. Hence the vaccination is done to prevent these episodes

ABOUT THE VIRUS

• This virus generally spreads when the virus is ingested. It can be transmitted from person to person by unwashed hands, using infected utensils.

• This virus when ingested reaches the stomach and causes symptoms

SYMPTOMS

• Features of infection- fever, lethargy

• Loose stools- multiple episodes of diarrhoea( no bleeding in faeces)

• Vomiting (non-green vomits)

• Stomach pain

• Rashes around anal area( due to repeated diarrhoea)

PREVENTION

• By vaccination of the baby at birth ( 2 doses given within 3 months of age)

• The vaccination is given through mouth as drops

• It cannot be given beyond 3 months of age

FIRST AID

• In episodes of gastroenteritis, it is very important to keep the baby hydrated.

• Hydration can be roughly estimated by checking the mouth ( for moistness), eyes(for tears), colour of skin ( has to be pink and warm) and regular urine passage( once in 6 hours)

• If child suffers from diarrhoea then oral rehydration solution has to be started immediately along with routine diet

• Check the Diarrhoea and vomiting section for further information

• As mentioned earlier, most of these cases are self-limiting and should recover in a few days time. Supportive treatment as above is utmost important.

• If any signs of concern, meet your doctor immediately. They might check the watery diarrhoea to look for the virus. Most times it is not required as it is a self-limiting disease.

• Antibiotics should never be started in Diarrhoea/ vomiting with proper investigation of the cause and sufficient reason for it