Rotavirus Infection Overview 

Rotavirus causes a viral infection primarily in the intestine and are the most common cause of gastroenteritis (severe diarrheal infection) in young children throughout the world. 12Children who get rotavirus infection can become dehydrated and may need to be hospitalized 3

Rotavirus spreads easily among infants and young children. 3 The virus can easily spread through the mouth and spreads by contact with contaminated faeces (poop). 24

This can happen if you put unwashed hands that are contaminated in your mouth, touch contaminated objects or surfaces then put your fingers in your mouth, or eat contaminated food. 4Rotaviruses can be shed for several days in very high concentrations in the faeces and vomit of infected individuals.3People shed the rotavirus the most, and are more likely to infect others, during symptoms and during the first 3 days after they recover. 4People with rotavirus can also infect others before they have symptoms. 4

Rotavirus infection is most common in infants and young children. 5Rotaviruses infect nearly every child from the time of birth up to 5 years and are globally the leading cause of severe, dehydrating diarrhea in children under the age of 5 years. 2

Rotavirus infection typically occurs quickly (about 2 days) and is characterized by vomiting and watery diarrhea for 3 to 8 days. 25
The symptoms of rotavirus infection vary, ranging from;

• severe diarrhea and vomiting causing dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and shock leading to death 2
  
• loose stools
  
• loss of appetite can also occur 5
  
• abdominal pain
  
• Fever

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