Rotavirus and Treatment Methods

Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily causes severe diarrhea in infants and children under the age of five. It affects the digestive system, leading to inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Rotavirus is one of the most common causes of childhood diarrhea worldwide and can lead to severe fluid loss (dehydration), sometimes requiring hospitalization.

Rotavirus belongs to the Reoviridae family and is a double-stranded RNA virus. The virus spreads through fecal-oral transmission and can be contracted via hands, surfaces, or contaminated water and food that come into contact with the feces of infected individuals. Rotavirus is highly resistant to stomach acid and many disinfectants, making the risk of transmission high.

Rotavirus infections are more common in winter and spring. While adults may experience mild symptoms, individuals with weakened immune systems and young children can face more severe complications.

Rotavirus infection usually begins to show symptoms 1–3 days after the virus enters the body. Symptoms include:

1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:

• Watery and severe diarrhea: The most prominent symptom, usually lasting 3–8 days. It can cause significant fluid loss in the intestines, leading to dehydration.

• Vomiting: Often starts in the early days of the illness and may continue for several days.

• Abdominal pain and cramps: Infection of the intestines can cause abdominal discomfort.

2. General Body Symptoms:

• Fever: Can range between 38–39°C.

• Weakness and fatigue: Fluid loss may leave the patient feeling weak.

• Loss of appetite: The patient may be reluctant to eat.

3. Dehydration Symptoms:
Severe diarrhea and vomiting caused by rotavirus can lead to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes. Dehydration can be life-threatening, especially in children. Symptoms include:

• Dry mouth and cracked lips

• Sunken eyes and lack of tears

• Reduced urine output, dark-colored urine, or no urine

• Restlessness and excessive crying (infants may cry without tears)

• Sunken fontanelle (in infants)

• Dizziness or altered consciousness

If these symptoms are observed, immediate medical attention should be sought.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for rotavirus infection. However, supportive therapies are applied to reduce symptom severity and prevent fluid loss. Treatment varies depending on the patient’s age, symptom severity, and level of dehydration.

1. Fluid and Electrolyte Support (Rehydration Therapy)
The greatest risk from rotavirus is fluid loss, making rehydration the most important treatment.

• Oral rehydration therapy (ORS - Oral Rehydration Solution): For mild to moderate fluid loss, ORS powders available in pharmacies can be mixed with water and given orally. ORS helps replace lost water, salts, and minerals.

• Intravenous fluid therapy (IV fluids) for severe dehydration: If a child experiences severe fluid loss and cannot take fluids orally, IV fluids should be administered in a hospital to restore fluid balance.

2. Nutrition and Diet
Nutrition is important during rotavirus infection. Recommended foods include:

• Breast milk: Breastfeeding should continue for infants, as breast milk strengthens the immune system and helps the illness be milder.

• Light foods: Rice porridge, boiled potatoes, bananas, yogurt, and boiled vegetables are easy to digest.

• Plenty of fluids: Water, herbal teas, and light broths should be consumed.

Foods to Avoid:

• Dairy products (except yogurt)

• Sugary drinks (sodas, fruit juices)

• Fatty and spicy foods

3. Fever and Pain Management

• If fever is high, antipyretics like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used under doctor supervision.

• Adequate fluid intake and rest help reduce fever more quickly.

4. Probiotic Use
Probiotics may help regulate gut flora. Yogurt or probiotic supplements can speed up recovery.

5. Are Antibiotics Necessary?
Since rotavirus is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective and should not be used.

The most effective way to prevent rotavirus is vaccination. Additionally, following hygiene rules reduces the risk of transmission.

1. Rotavirus Vaccine

• The rotavirus vaccine is administered orally to infants at 2 and 4 months of age (in some vaccines, a 3rd dose is given at 6 months).

• The vaccine significantly reduces the severity of the disease and prevents serious cases.

2. Attention to Hygiene

• Hands should be washed frequently with soap and water.

• Toys and surfaces frequently touched by children should be cleaned regularly.

• Attention should be paid to consuming clean drinking water and hygienic food.

Conclusion
Rotavirus is a dangerous infection, especially in children, that can cause severe fluid loss. The disease can be managed with early diagnosis and proper treatment methods. However, the most effective prevention method is vaccination. If a child shows severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration symptoms, medical care should be sought immediately.