What causes rotavirus?

Rotavirus gastroenteritis is a virus. It is usually spread by contact with an infected person through:

• person-to-person contact, particularly with someone who has not washed their hands
• coming into contact with vomit or diarrhoea
• being exposed to contaminated food or water.

Rotavirus spreads very easily because it can be passed on before symptoms appear and you begin to feel ill.

Rotavirus symptoms

Symptoms include:

• fever
• vomiting
• tummy pain
• watery diarrhoea.

Symptoms usually last from a few days to a week. People with rotavirus stay infectious for about two weeks.

Rotavirus treatment

Usually the illness will take its course without requiring treatment, but it’s a good idea to;

• get plenty of rest
• drink plenty of water to replace fluids lost to diarrhoea and avoid dehydration (over-the-counter rehydration drinks can help)
• avoid anti-diarrhoea medicines unless recommended by your doctor.

Breastfed babies can continue feeding, but may need additional fluids. Children with vomiting or diarrhoea who are very unwell or under six months old should see a doctor.

Rotavirus prevention

There are many ways to prevent the spread of rotavirus.

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before handling food, after using the toilet or changing a nappy.
• Wash objects that have been exposed to rotavirus with hot water and soap then, allow them to dry.
• If you’ve had diarrhoea, avoid entering a swimming pool for two weeks after symptoms disappear.
• Keep children with rotavirus at home from childcare for at least 24 hours after diarrhoea stops.