Rotavirus is a common cause of severe diarrhea among infants and young children, with potentially serious consequences if not addressed promptly. At KHUSHI GENERAL AND CHILDREN HOSPITAL, JIND we are committed to both the effective treatment of rotavirus infections and the education of our community on prevention and early detection.
Rotavirus is a contagious virus that can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to gastroenteritis (stomach and intestine inflammation). It's the most frequent cause of severe diarrheal disease in young children worldwide.
The virus spreads easily through hand-to-mouth contact with tiny particles of feces of an infected person.
It can also spread through contaminated objects, food, or water.
Severe watery diarrhea
Vomiting
Fever
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite and dehydration
Timely Diagnosis: Early detection is key. A stool sample can be tested for the presence of rotavirus antigens.
Supportive Treatment: There's no specific drug to treat rotavirus infection. Care mainly involves:
Rehydration: Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
Zinc supplements: Can help reduce the duration of diarrhea.
Continued feeding: Including breastfeeding for infants, is encouraged.
It's essential to avoid giving over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication to children without consulting a healthcare professional.
Rotavirus Vaccine: It's the best way to protect young children from rotavirus illness. The vaccine is typically administered in multiple doses to infants, starting as early as six weeks of age.
Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers, is crucial in preventing the spread of rotavirus.
Community Engagement: At KHUSHI GENERAL AND CHILDREN HOSPITAL, JIND we routinely hold awareness sessions to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of vaccination and good hygiene practices.
Recovery from rotavirus usually takes a few days to a week with appropriate care. Our dedicated team is here to guide families every step of the way, offering advice and support to ensure a swift and complete recovery.