What is Rotavirus ?
Rotavirus is one of the most common viral intestinal infections, especially in infants and young children. Rotavirus infection affects millions of children worldwide each year. This infection is seen in nearly all children by the age of five. Since the immunity acquired in the early years is not lifelong, rotavirus infection can occur multiple times.
Routes of Rotavirus Transmission
Rotavirus infection is primarily transmitted through the oral route by contaminated hands, surfaces, or food. This mode of transmission is medically referred to as the 'fecal-oral route' and is especially common among children. Because rotavirus spreads so easily, it is very important to strictly follow hygiene practices.
Contact between people: Rotavirus is primarily transmitted through contaminated hands. This is especially related to inadequate handwashing among children. The virus can enter the oral cavity through contaminated hands and then reach the digestive system, causing infection.
Through contaminated objects and foods: Infection can also occur after contact with objects such as toilets, door handles, and towels. Rotavirus can survive for a long time on toys and other hard surfaces, significantly increasing the risk of infection.
Feces: We have specifically noted feces as a route of transmission. Because feces are still considered infectious up to 3 days after diarrhea, a symptom of the illness, has ended. Rotavirus can survive in dried feces for several days. It can remain active in water for several weeks.
On the other hand, if a child is infected with rotavirus but has not yet shown symptoms of the illness, it is still possible for the virus to be transmitted to others.
Rotavirus signs and symptoms
The main signs of rotavirus infection include the following:
Severe diarrhea: Starts acutely and usually lasts 3-8 days;
Vomiting;
Abdominal pain;
Fever: Starts the same as diarrhea and lasts for 1-2 days.
However, the clinical course of the disease varies — in some cases, it may present with mild symptoms, while in others it can be accompanied by severe symptoms.
In mild cases: The virus can continue to spread even without symptoms.
In severe cases:
Presence of blood in the feces;
Respiratory and circulatory disorders;
Cases of dizziness may also occur.
In addition, persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which is the loss of fluids from the body. As a result of this effect, symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, and pale skin may also be observed.
Rotavirus incubation period and infectiousness
The incubation period of rotavirus infection is usually between 1 and 3 days. During this period, the child may not show any symptoms, but can already be contagious.
Even after symptoms of the disease have resolved, rotavirus can continue to be excreted in feces for up to 8 days.
Premature infants and individuals with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for a longer period.
Rotavirus diagnostics and tests
The detection of viral antigen in feces plays a key role in diagnosis. Viral antigen in feces can be determined by Express (faster and suitable for initial diagnosis) and other methods (ELISA - more specific diagnosis).
If necessary, based on accompanying symptoms, a specialist doctor may order additional tests and examinations to assess overall health and establish an accurate diagnosis.
What should you pay attention to during rotavirus disease?
Proper care and correct management of symptoms during rotavirus infection accelerate recovery and prevent complications.
Rest and isolation: Staying at home during the illness is important to prevent transmission.
Adequate fluid intake: Sufficient fluids should be consumed to prevent dehydration. If necessary, intravenous fluid therapy may be administered under medical supervision.
Breastfeeding should be continued in infants: Breast milk has both a nourishing and protective effect.
Antibiotics are not effective: Rotavirus is viral, not bacterial, therefore antibiotics are ineffective.
Anti-diarrheal medications are not recommended: These medications can slow down intestinal movement, causing the virus to remain in the body for a longer time.
Children under 6 years old should not attend school or daycare until symptoms have completely resolved, to prevent transmission to other children.
Special attention to hand and toilet hygiene: One of the most effective ways to prevent transmission.
How to protect against rotavirus?
The most effective way to prevent rotavirus is through vaccination and proper hygiene practices. Parents can effectively protect their children from this contagious virus by following the following protective measures:
Vaccination: Oral vaccination is recommended for infants.Depending on the type of vaccine, 2 or 3 doses are sufficient.
Hand hygiene: Hands must be washed with soap. Particular attention should be paid to handwashing after using the toilet, before eating, and after changing a baby's diaper.
Other hygiene measures: Personal towels and hygiene products should be used. Towels, bed linens, and clothes should be washed at 60°C or higher. Door handles, faucets, and frequently touched surfaces should be disinfected regularly.
Food safety: Viruses are destroyed at temperatures of 70°C and above. Although they do not multiply in food, viruses can remain on their surfaces.
Therefore, for effective protection against rotavirus infection, special attention must be paid to the administration of the vaccine and daily adherence to hygiene rules. This approach protects individual health and also prevents the spread of the virus.