Rotavirus: A common disease that causes gastroenteritis. Here are 5 ways to prevent it.

Arab Weather - Rotavirus is one of the most common viruses worldwide, especially among children. It is the primary cause of acute viral gastroenteritis, which causes troubling symptoms such as severe diarrhea and vomiting, in addition to high temperatures and abdominal pain.

What is rotavirus?

Rotavirus is one of the most prominent viruses affecting the gastrointestinal tract. It is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, particularly in young children, and can lead to troubling and sometimes dangerous symptoms if not treated properly. This virus is known for its rapid spread. It is enough to touch a contaminated surface, eat contaminated food, or even shake hands with an infected person to transmit the infection, especially since the virus can survive for long periods on exposed surfaces.

Symptoms of the virus typically begin one or two days after infection, with patients experiencing severe and recurrent diarrhea, accompanied by vomiting, nausea, fever, and abdominal pain and cramps. The virus's danger lies in its ability to cause rapid dehydration, particularly in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, whose condition rapidly deteriorates if lost fluids are not replaced.

5 Ways to Prevent Rotavirus

Regarding prevention, the rotavirus vaccine is the most effective way to limit its spread, especially since it is given to children during the first months of life via easy-to-administer oral drops. It is also recommended to regularly wash hands with soap and water, ensure clean household surfaces, and disinfect children's toys, in addition to avoiding eating uncovered food or drinking unsafe water.

Treatment does not rely on medications to eliminate the virus itself. Instead, it focuses on treating the symptoms, including replacing lost fluids and salts using oral rehydration solutions or intravenous therapy in severe cases. It is also recommended to closely monitor signs of dehydration, especially in children, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, lethargy, and loss of concentration.

And God knows best.