What are the symptoms of rotavirus infection?

A rotavirus illness often begins with vomiting and fever, followed by frequent watery stools. Children may be irritable, tired or less interested in food and fluids. The infection affects the digestive system and can cause gastroenteritis. Symptoms may occur together or change over the course of the illness.

Watch for dehydration: a dry mouth, fewer wet nappies or trips to the toilet, dark urine, unusual sleepiness, dizziness or difficulty keeping fluids down. Babies, young children and people with other health problems can become dehydrated more quickly.

Offer small, frequent sips of fluid. An oral rehydration solution can replace water and salts lost through diarrhoea and vomiting; follow the product instructions. Continue breastfeeding, and offer familiar foods when the person feels able to eat.

Wash hands carefully after using the toilet or changing nappies, and clean contaminated surfaces. Avoid preparing food for others while symptoms are active. A clinician can advise about care for an infant, persistent vomiting or an existing medical condition.

Seek urgent medical help if there are signs of significant dehydration, blood in the stool, severe or worsening abdominal pain, confusion, marked drowsiness, or an inability to keep fluids down. Prompt assessment is also sensible for a very young baby or someone who is frail.

Ask whether the symptoms fit rotavirus or another cause of gastroenteritis, how much fluid to offer, and which dehydration signs should prompt an urgent review. You can also ask about prevention through childhood immunisation.