Rotavirus , the culprit of diarrhea in infants and young children

Tongling Disease Control

Rotavirus acute gastroenteritis (commonly known as rotavirus diarrhea) is here again.

01

What is rotavirus?

Because the virus particles look like wheels when observed under an electron microscope, they are named " rotavirus ". It is one of the main pathogens that cause severe dehydration diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide. Almost every child between the ages of 0 and 5 has been infected with rotavirus once.

02

What are the symptoms of rotavirus infection?

1. After infection, children generally develop clinical symptoms mainly of acute gastroenteritis, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever and other symptoms.

2. "Three mores and one less" often occur: more frequency and volume of bowel movements, more water, and less urine.

3. The course of the disease is generally 7 days, with fever lasting for 3 days, vomiting for 2 to 3 days, diarrhea for 5 days, and severe cases may cause dehydration.

03

How is rotavirus infection transmitted?

1. Mainly transmitted through the fecal-oral route.

2. The excrement and vomit of infants and young children who have been exposed to rotavirus, and the water, food, and objects contaminated by rotavirus can be transmitted to other people directly or indirectly.

04

What is the treatment for rotavirus infection?

1. Rotavirus is a self-limiting disease. There is currently no specific medicine for infection, and symptomatic and supportive treatment is the main approach.

2. Timely infusion or oral rehydration. The condition of infected children is generally not too serious, and appropriate rehydration can help the body recover.

3. If the child has symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea , he should go to the hospital immediately for early diagnosis and treatment.

05

How to prevent rotavirus infection?

1. Vaccination with rotavirus vaccine is the most effective measure to prevent rotavirus infection.

2. Develop good hygiene habits. Wash your hands before and after meals, and boil or disinfect cups and utensils before use. Pay special attention to hand hygiene, and do not touch your mouth, eyes, nose, or food with dirty hands. Pay attention to drinking water hygiene, and do not drink raw water. Wash your hands first when you go out and come home to avoid bringing the virus home from public places.

3. Fruits, vegetables and other foods must be washed thoroughly, avoid eating leftovers, pay attention to indoor hygiene, and open windows frequently for ventilation.

4. Objects contaminated with rotavirus must be thoroughly disinfected through various methods such as high temperature, disinfectants or sunlight exposure.