What is rotavirus?

Rotavirus is a viral infection that can cause diarrhea, usually with vomiting and low-grade fever. In severe cases, losing fluids through vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. Rotavirus can also be accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms like a cough and runny nose.

What causes rotavirus?

Rotavirus is in stools of infected patients and is easily spread within families and daycare centers. People can catch the virus if they come in contact with infected stools and don't wash their hands well. Children usually catch rotavirus when they're between 6 and 24 months old. The incubation period is from one to three days.

How do you treat rotavirus?

There is no specific treatment. Your child may get oral and IV (intravenous) fluids to treat dehydration, and may have frequent laboratory tests to see if it's improving. She'll probably start drinking small amounts of clear liquids (such as Gatorade, Pedialyte, gelatin, popsicles, soda, juices). If his diarrhea or vomiting gets better, he can start a "BRATY" diet (Bananas, Rice cereal, Apple sauce, Toast, and Yogurt), and then gradually return to his regular diet. The special diet gives your child easily digested foods and liquids to maintain nutrition and hydration and lets her stomach and intestines rest.

Will my child be in isolation while hospitalized?

Yes, the virus is very contagious and your child will have to stay in a private room at the hospital. Wash your hands frequently and wear gloves when you change diapers to keep the infection from spreading to other family members, hospital staff and other patients.

How long will my child be in the hospital?

Each case is different. Some children recover from dehydration sooner than others. Once the dehydration is better and your child can eat and drink without the diarrhea or vomiting getting worse, your doctor will decide when to discharge him.

When should I call the doctor?

After your child goes home from the hospital, call the doctor if your child develops the following symptoms:

• Fever higher than 101° F
• Persistent vomiting and/or diarrhea (runny stools)
• Refusing to drink fluids such as Pedialyte, Ricelyte, and Gatorade
• Not making urine at least six times a day