Rotavirus is the leading viral cause that causes severe diarrhea in children. Rotavirus is an RNA virus and has seven different antigenic groups. The most common types are G1-G4, and rotaviruses found in humans and animals cross-react.
Rotavirus infection, which causes severe diarrhea in infants and children, is a problem today.
The disease occurs all over the world. It is common. It is common in our country during the winter months. It is the most important cause of diarrhea in children under five years of age.
The virus is mainly transmitted through feces. The contagious period is long and this process can continue within 10 to 12 days after clinical findings appear. It is important for transmission that the virus can be present for a long time, especially on toys in the child care home and on surfaces that the child comes into contact with. Although a child with rotavirus diarrhea may become ill again with another antigenic type, recurrent infections are usually mild. Although rotavirus infection is seen in all age groups, almost all children, especially in the first three years of age, experience this infection. In adults, the infection may be asymptomatic. Data regarding the incidence varies by country. Studies conducted in our country emphasize that the rotavirus positivity rate in children with diarrhea is between 16.6% and 36.8%.
Infection in newborns is usually mild, and this suggests that the infection may be due to breastfeeding and protective substances from the mother. Infection may also occur in epidemics. Domestic transmission may occur. It is emphasized that the spread of rotavirus diarrhea in child care homes is common.
In rotavirus infection, there is fever at the beginning. Diarrhea and vomiting accompany the clinical picture. This condition, which is generally mild, has a serious course in some patients. Rotavirus infection can be severe, especially in children under 5 years of age.
Diagnosis of rotavirus infection
-
Viral isolation
-
Electron microscopic examination is performed first.
These methods are used for research.
In practice, diagnosis is made by stool antigen test.
Treatment in rotavirus infection
Supportive treatment is applied.
There is no antiviral treatment specific to rotavirus.
To prevent dehydration. Oral fluid therapy is recommended. The aim of treatment is to replace lost water, salt and sugar. Powder packages are used to replace these lost substances. Oral fluid intake of the baby and child is increased and these powders are given in liquid.
Attention should be paid to breastfeeding. Diet food and diarrhea diet should be given when necessary.
Antidiarrhea drugs are never used in the treatment.
Babies who are vomiting or have dehydration. Fluid support should be administered intravenously.
Protection against rotavirus diarrhea,
-
Hand washing and isolation are important in protecting against the disease. It is not recommended to send sick children to school or nursery until the diarrhea situation improves.
Vaccines are important in protecting against rotavirus infection.
Prof.Dr.Nuran Gürses
Child and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist
Read: 0
