Right from birth, children are more vulnerable to diseases, and rotavirus is a common illness that affects babies and young children. It is an intestinal and stomach infection that causes severe diarrhea. Rotavirus happens to almost all children before they are 5 years old.

Symptoms of Rotavirus

Its symptoms include vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach pain, and fever. A child who is infected with rotavirus would cry more than usual, appear weak, and become dehydrated. It can take more than 2 days for symptoms to show, and once they do, they can last between 3 to 8 days.

Causes of Rotavirus

Rotavirus is highly infectious and can be contacted through direct or in-direct contact with the poop(feces) of an infected person. Once your child touches a contaminated surface, they may become sick if any of the following happens;

  • If they put their contaminated hands in their mouth
  • If they eat contaminated food.

This infection is easily spread amongst babies and young children, and it can also spread to adults who have been in close contact with these children. You should see a doctor if you suspect that your child is suffering from this infection. They usually diagnose such cases faster.

Prevention/Treatment

In other to protect your child from this virus, give him/her an oral vaccine. There are two different types of oral vaccines; one for 2 and 4 months old and another for 6 months old. Your doctor is the best person who should recommend the right vaccines and the proper dosage.

Washing your hands and that of your child always is the best way to prevent this infection. Also, keep your child away from other children who are infected with the virus.

Rotavirus cannot be treated with antibiotics. If the case is severe, it’s important to visit a doctor who would recommend the best treatment for your child.