Rotavirus

Rotavirus

What is Rotavirus?

Rotavirus is a type of virus that easily spreads and is a major cause of diarrhea in children and adults. This particular virus is the most significant cause of severe diarrhea that requires hospitalization due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Unfortunately, public health measures cannot fully prevent the transmission of Rotavirus.

How does one contract Rotavirus?

This virus is contracted by consuming contaminated substances through the mouth, including water, food, and objects. The virus can be present on objects or hands that have come into contact with the virus and are subsequently put in the mouth. Once the virus enters the body, it travels through the digestive system, specifically the stomach and intestines, where it damages the intestinal lining, leading to inflammation and infection.

What are the symptoms of Rotavirus infection?

After contracting the virus, symptoms usually appear after 1-2 days. These include vomiting, fever (which can be as high as 39 degrees Celsius), and some individuals may experience respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and sore throat. This is followed by diarrhea, with watery stools occurring up to 10-20 times a day. In most cases, the symptoms resolve within 3-5 days. However, some individuals may experience prolonged and persistent diarrhea for up to 9 days to 3 weeks. If diarrhea persists for an extended period or becomes severe, it can lead to the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. This can be more significant than other bacterial infections and may result in fatalities. Therefore, if severe or prolonged symptoms occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly and may require urgent hospitalization.

How can we determine if diarrhea is caused by the rotavirus?

The diagnosis of rotavirus-induced diarrhea is made based on the patient's history, symptoms, and the prevailing season, along with the detection of rotavirus in the stool (positive Rotavirus Ag in Stool).

If infected with rotavirus, how should it be treated?

Since there is no specific antiviral medication for this type of virus, treatment focuses on managing the symptoms. If the symptoms are not severe, home remedies can be used, such as rehydration with electrolyte solution to compensate for the fluid loss from diarrhea and vomiting. Antiemetic medications can be taken to alleviate vomiting if it is frequent. However, if there are signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy, cold extremities, high fever, seizures, labored breathing, decreased urination, or the inability to tolerate oral intake due to vomiting, it is advisable to seek urgent medical attention for proper treatment in a hospital setting.

How can we protect ourselves from rotavirus infection?

The basic preventive measures for preventing diarrheal diseases include maintaining good hygiene, ensuring the cleanliness of food and drinking water, and practicing proper handwashing. Adequate handwashing facilities and clean toilets should be provided, and the cleanliness of the environment and utensils should be diligently maintained. Proper disposal of feces is also crucial. If a patient is identified, immediate measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the infection to others. It is recommended to promptly seek medical attention and refrain from self-treatment until the condition returns to normal. Warning signs should not be ignored, and medical attention should be sought.

Warning signs include:

• Severe vomiting or abnormal bowel movements
• Lethargy and weakness
• Cold hands and feet
• Dark urine or no urination for more than 6 hours
• Dry mouth, sunken eyes, absence of tears when crying (infants may have a sunken fontanelle)

Rotavirus is a highly resilient virus that can survive well in the environment. It is easily transmitted, and specific treatment methods are currently unavailable. General treatment involves managing the symptoms. Oral vaccination remains the best preventive method.

Dr. Phusit Vachirakitikul

Gastroenterologist

Vibhavadi Hospital