What are the first signs of rotavirus infection?

Rotavirus commonly starts with a raised temperature and vomiting before frequent watery stools develop. A child may become tired, irritable, or less interested in drinking. The illness can cause fluid and salt loss, so the change in behaviour and urine output matters as much as the bowel symptoms. These features can overlap with other causes of gastroenteritis, so symptoms alone cannot identify the virus.

Offer small, frequent sips of breast milk, formula, water where suitable, or an oral rehydration solution. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller amounts rather than offering a large drink. Continue age-appropriate feeding when tolerated, and wash hands carefully after nappy changes or using the toilet. Do not give anti-diarrhoeal medicines to a child unless a clinician advises it. Learn more about [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) and [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Seek urgent help if a child is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, confused, breathing abnormally, unable to keep fluids down, or passing very little urine. A dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, cold hands, or worsening weakness can signal dehydration. Contact a clinician promptly for blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, or fever in a very young baby. Diarrhoea and vomiting can worsen quickly in infants.

Ask whether the symptoms fit [Rotavirus Infection](/conditions/rotavirus-infection/) or another form of [Gastroenteritis](/conditions/gastroenteritis/), how much fluid is appropriate, and which signs mean the child needs assessment. You can also ask about [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) and [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/) care.