Rotavirus Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Rotavirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis (diarrhea) in children and causes incidence rates that are similar in both developed and developing countries.
Viruses cause about 70% of episodes of infectious diarrhea in children. Rotavirus is less common in adults because of their natural immunity.
Symptoms
Rotavirus infection generally begins with a few signs, such as mild fever and vomiting. These symptoms usually appear at least two days after a person is exposed to the virus.
In addition, sufferers will also experience diarrhea for several days and feel pain in the stomach due to infection.
Signs that can be seen in children who have rotavirus infection include:
- Fever up to 40°C
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea more than 24 hours
- Loss of appetite, weakness and fussiness
- Black stools or blood in them
Signs of rotavirus infection in adults:
Reason
Rotavirus is a common cause of diarrhea in children. Rotavirus infection occurs in children aged 3–35 months. However, adults – especially those who are children, also have a risk of developing rotavirus infection.
Diagnosis
Gastroenteritis or diarrhea caused by rotavirus is usually diagnosed clinically, based on the signs and symptoms experienced by sufferers. In addition, supporting examinations can be carried out if needed. For example blood tests, urine tests, and stool examinations.
Examination of electrolyte values and blood sugar is done if the sufferer is dehydrated and has decreased consciousness. Meanwhile, rotavirus antigen examination can be done 3–5 days after symptoms appear.
Treatment
Handling rotavirus infection can be done by:
- Rehydration
The main treatment for gastroenteritis in children and adults is rehydration. This is preferably done through oral rehydration therapy.
- Food
Babies who consume breast milk should continue to breastfeed as usual. Children should continue their normal diet during diarrhea.
- Probiotics
Several probiotics have been shown to be useful for reducing the duration of illness and the frequency of bowel movements. Probiotics may also be useful in preventing and treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Fermented milk products (such as yogurt) are also beneficial.
Prevention
Rotavirus infection can be prevented by making lifestyle changes. An easily accessible, uncontaminated water supply and good sanitation practices are important to reduce infection and gastroenteritis rates. Personal steps, such as washing your hands, can reduce your risk of gastroenteritis by up to 30%.
Breastfeeding is very important, especially in places with poor hygiene. Breast milk helps reduce the frequency and duration of infections.
Vaccinations can be done. Because of its effectiveness and safety, in 2009 the World Health Organization recommended that the rotavirus vaccine be given to all children worldwide. The first dose of vaccine should be given to infants between 6–15 weeks of age.