The rotavirus is a form of infection prevalent among children below 5 years old. It is highly transmittable and contagious. Even though it typically affects young children, adults can also acquire the infection, but it is less severe.
The condition could not be managed with drugs. It generally settles on its own after some time. Nevertheless, dehydration is an issue of concern.
What are the indications?
The signs of rotavirus are quite prominent among children. The symptoms might arise within 2 days after exposure to the rotavirus. The common sign of rotavirus is severe diarrhea.
Other symptoms that might arise include:
- Severe fatigue
- Vomiting
- Stools with blood or pus
- Tarry or black stools
- High fever
- Abdominal pain
- Irritability
- Dehydration
Remember that dehydration is an issue of concern among children. The age group is prone to loss of electrolytes due to diarrhea and vomiting with their smaller body weights.
Among adults, some of the signs might also arise. Nevertheless, healthy adults experience them to a lesser degree. Some adults who are infected do not have any symptoms at all.
Management of rotavirus
There are no available drugs for rotavirus. The objective of treatment is to keep the body hydrated and comfortable as the condition progresses.
Some of the measures to manage the condition include:
- Increase the intake of fluids
- Provide the individual with broth-based soups
- Diet of bland foods such as saltines and white toast
- Provide Pedialyte or other fluids with electrolytes
- Avoid fatty or sugary foods since these can worsen diarrhea
Hospitalization is only necessary for cases that resulted to severe dehydration. Intravenous fluids are given by the doctor to prevent dangerous complications from developing.