What are the treatment options for rotavirus infection?

Rotavirus commonly causes watery diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and fever. The main danger is loss of fluid and salts, especially in babies and young children. Antibiotics do not treat a viral infection, and diarrhoea medicines should not be given to a child unless a clinician specifically recommends them.

A clinician may assess alertness, urine output, mouth moisture, tears, breathing, and the ability to drink. Testing is not always needed, but the assessment can identify dehydration or another illness needing different care.

Offer an oral rehydration solution in frequent small sips, particularly after vomiting or a loose stool. Follow the packet instructions exactly and use freshly prepared solution as directed. Breastfeeding should continue; an older child can usually return gradually to familiar foods as appetite returns. Avoid relying on juice, fizzy drinks, or very sweet drinks, which can worsen diarrhoea.

Wash hands with soap and water after changing nappies or using the toilet and before preparing food. Clean contaminated surfaces and avoid sharing towels. Ask about rotavirus prevention through routine childhood immunisation for eligible infants.

Seek urgent medical care if a child is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, unable to keep fluids down, passing very little urine, has a dry mouth without tears, bloody stool, severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulty, or a seizure. Babies, children with ongoing vomiting, and anyone with a chronic illness may need earlier assessment for dehydration.

How much oral rehydration solution should my child receive? What signs show dehydration is worsening? When should normal feeds and foods resume? Does my child need assessment today, and are routine vaccinations up to date?