Rotavirus Infection in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Rotavirus infection causes severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. This can cause life-threatening dehydration. Rotavirus can spread through coughing, food or water, or contact with the bowel movement of an infected person. Rotavirus can remain on objects, such as clothes or toys, for many days. The infection can spread when someone touches an infected object.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.
Your child's intake and output may be measured:
Healthcare providers will keep track of the amount of liquid your child is getting. They also may need to know how much he or she is urinating. Ask healthcare providers if they need to measure or collect your child's urine.
Isolation:
Your child may be put on isolation safety measures so he or she does not spread rotavirus to others. Healthcare providers and visitors may need to wear gloves, a face mask, or a gown. Visitors should wash their hands before leaving to keep from spreading germs.
Blood tests
may be done to check for dehydration.
Treatment:
Your child may need any of the following to replace lost fluids:
- Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is a drink that contains water, minerals, and sugar. ORS replaces lost body fluids from dehydration.
- IV liquids help treat dehydration by replacing lost body fluids.
- A nasogastric (NG) tube is put in through the nose and down to the stomach. Liquids can be given through the NG tube if your child is not able to drink.
RISKS:
Your child's rotavirus infection may return. His or her risk for severe dehydration is increased. Rarely, a rotavirus infection may spread to the blood, organs, or brain.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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