What is and how do you know if your child has rota-virus?

Question

what is and how do you know if your child has rota-virus?

My almost 2 year old son has been very sick since Thursday night. He vomited thursday and Friday and had a fever of 102. since then he has had horrible diarrhea. He is having 2 stools an hour and its almost like water. We have a doctors appointment at 8:15 in the morning. When i spoke to the nurse she said it could be Rota-virus.

What can you tell me about this? How did your child act when they had this? What causes this?

thank you

Answer 1

"Rotavirus is an extremely common and highly contagious stomach virus, and it can be serious. It causes an illness of the stomach and intestines called gastroenteritis."

"Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea in young children. If your baby gets sick with rotavirus, symptoms may come on suddenly and usually begin with fever, vomiting, and upset stomach, followed by watery diarrhea. These symptoms can last from 3 to 9 days."

Alot more info on Rotavirus on this website: http://www.rotavirusinfo.com/what-is-rot...

Answer 2

I worked at a daycare as a teenager and when a kid had the rotovirus is has a very distinct smell to it. A horrible sick smell even in the diarrhea. I know that it is very contagious and very important to keep your baby hydrated!!! Hope this helps some and he gets feeling better!  

Answer 3

According to "The Vaccine Book" by Dr. Robert Sears, he says "Is rotavirus treatable?  No.  There is no medication to combat rotavirus.  Infants who are not significantly dehydrated usually do fine at home with the proper hydration measures.  Taking a probiotic powder (such as acidophilus, available at a health food or vitamin store) can shorten the course of the disease.  Avoiding cow's milk or cow's milk formula for a few weeks can also help the diarrhea subside more quickly.  Soy formula or soy milk can be used as an alternative during this time.  Breast milk is the best hydration a baby can get.

Those who are significantly dehydrated can receive IV fluids in an ER and then be sent home.  Infants who are severely dehydrated often need to stay in the hospital for a fe days until the vomiting and diarrhea subside."

Answer 4

Hi LinMarie,  Has you child been immunised to the Rotavirus? I'm not sure which country ur in, but here in Australia we have an option to have our children vaccinated at 2 months, 4 months and 6 months against Rotavirus.  The attached link has some info that you may find useful.  Best to feed ur child dry toast, biscuits and plenty of liquid till the virus passes.  No milk, but if he is on formula, it is recommended that it is watered down.  My 2 children had this when they were young many times and it is scary, but with childrens panadol and cutting back on dairy foods helped them get over the virus in 3 days the max.  All the best n hope the little one is better soon.