Rotavirus: What is it, How Does it Spread, Symptoms, Treatment

Rotavirus is a common viral infection that causes diarrhea, particularly in children under 5 years of age. Some studies show that there are more than 100 million cases of rotavirus-induced gastroenteritis worldwide each year. Today, there are various vaccines against rotavirus, and vaccination programs are being implemented. However, the disease remains a significant health issue that still affects many people. You can find answers to questions such as what are the symptoms of rotavirus, how does it spread, and how is it treated, along with other details you may be curious about in the rest of the article.

What is Rotavirus?

Rotavirus is a double-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Reoviridae family. Among the nine different types of rotavirus, the most common group causing infection is Rotavirus A. It is commonly seen in children between the ages of 6 to 24 months, but rotavirus infections can also occur in adults. Some studies show that in countries with temperate climates, the infection tends to occur during the winter months, while in tropical countries, it may occur year-round. Rotavirus is a significant health problem globally, particularly threatening public health, especially for children. Therefore, preventing and treating the infection is crucial for global public health.

How is Rotavirus Spread?

Rotavirus can be found in stool even before diarrhea begins. The virus present in the stool can easily spread to other surfaces if hands are not properly washed after using the bathroom or changing a diaper. Consumption of food or drink contaminated with feces is the primary route of infection. This is known as the fecal-oral route of transmission. Additionally, bodily fluids from someone infected with rotavirus can also cause the disease to spread.

What are the Symptoms of Rotavirus?

The incubation period for rotavirus infection can vary, but symptoms typically appear 2-4 days after exposure to the virus. Rotavirus can present with a variety of symptoms, with diarrhea and vomiting being the most common. The main symptoms of rotavirus infection are listed below:

• Sudden onset of fever and vomiting after the incubation period
• Diarrhea starting after fever and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Irritability

In addition to the above symptoms, if rotavirus is not treated early, diarrhea, vomiting, and high fever can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the body, leading to dehydration, which is the loss of fluids. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as dehydration signs are observed in both children and adults. The main signs of dehydration include:

• Decreased urination
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Mental confusion
• Reduced tears when crying in babies and children
• Insomnia and restlessness

How is Rotavirus Diagnosed?

The only way to differentiate rotavirus from other pathogens is through laboratory microbiological examination. Rotavirus can be diagnosed by examining stool samples in the laboratory. However, since the main goal in treating diarrhea is to prevent dehydration, differential diagnosis is usually not necessary.

Rotavirus Treatment

In children and adults with strong immune systems who are infected with rotavirus, the illness usually resolves on its own within a few days. Currently, there is no specific medication developed for rotavirus. However, a treatment procedure may be applied to help alleviate symptoms related to the infection. Since the disease is characterized by severe diarrhea and vomiting, it is important to prevent complications that may arise due to these symptoms. In such cases, certain medications may be prescribed by a specialist doctor. However, in cases of severe fluid loss, treatment may need to continue in a hospital setting. The best way to combat rotavirus infection is to drink plenty of fluids. So, what should individuals with rotavirus symptoms (either children or adults) do? The methods that can be applied to fight rotavirus infection are listed below:

• An infected baby should be breastfed frequently. This helps prevent dehydration.
• Sugary and fatty foods and drinks may worsen diarrhea and vomiting. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid sugary foods during the illness.
• Consuming liquid foods such as soups can help relieve symptoms.
• It is important to give children water frequently.

In addition to the above, if signs such as pale skin, dry mouth, or decreased urine output are noticed, one should seek medical attention without delay.

Rotavirus Prevention Methods

The main route of rotavirus transmission is contact with contaminated surfaces and/or consuming contaminated food and drinks. Some precautions can help protect against rotavirus infection. These include:

• Washing hands after using the toilet and before every meal is one of the most effective ways to protect against viruses, including rotavirus.
• Rotavirus spreads more easily in unhygienic environments. Therefore, it is advised to avoid spending time in places that are not adequately clean.
• Contaminated water can cause the virus to spread. It is important to avoid drinking unclean water.
• There are vaccines available against rotavirus. Vaccination, especially during childhood, is the most effective way to prevent the disease. It is ideal to start vaccinations at 2 and 3 months of age.
• Additionally, avoiding close contact with people showing infection symptoms, washing hands with soap and water after changing a baby's diaper, and taking other hygiene precautions can help protect against the infection.

Rotavirus Vaccine

The most effective known method for protecting against rotavirus is vaccination. These vaccines are particularly recommended for children and individuals with weakened immune systems. First introduced in 2006, rotavirus vaccines have significantly reduced hospitalization rates due to the infection. Currently, there are two licensed rotavirus vaccines used in Turkey. One contains 5 antigens against the virus and is administered in 3 doses. This vaccine is typically given to babies at 2, 4, and 6 months of age, with the final dose recommended before the baby turns 24 months old.

Another licensed vaccine used in Turkey is given in 2 doses and contains 1 antigen against the infection. This vaccine is administered at 2 and 4 months of age. Both vaccines are taken orally, making them easy to administer to babies. As with other vaccines, some mild side effects may occur after vaccination. These include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Mild fever
• Fatigue

Although rare, some cases may experience severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, or bloody stools after the vaccine. In such cases, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Rotavirus can lead to severe complications due to dehydration in children and adults with weakened immune systems. Since there is no specific treatment for the disease, preventing the infection is the priority. Therefore, special attention should be given to providing hygiene education to school-aged children. Additionally, it is recommended that the rotavirus vaccine be included in vaccination programs. If you or your child experience symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.