Baby
Rotavirus and childhood diarrhoea and vomiting
Children and bugs seem inextricably linked. During the early years, it can seem like kids catch every illness going, but when a sickness and diarrhoea virus really takes hold it can get serious
Most babies and children will suffer from gastroenteritis (diarrhoea and vomiting) at some point. The most common cause is a virus called rotavirus and the bad news is that it's so widespread that 95 per cent of children will have a bout of rotavirus gastroenteritis by the time they reach their fifth birthday.
Symptoms
Symptoms of rotavirus infection include watery diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and pain. The diarrhoea and vomiting can be intense, and a baby or child can typically have 20 episodes of vomiting and diarrhoea in just 24 hours. The symptoms can last for up to a week, sometimes longer.
While most cases of infection will resolve with rest and plenty of fluids, there is a risk of dehydration and children with severe cases may need hospital treatment. Rotavirus gastroenteritis is more severe in younger children, and severe gastroenteritis is common in babies aged six months or younger.
Treatment
The main aim of treatment for gastroenteritis is to avoid dehydration by giving the child frequent small sips of water. Babies who are breastfeeding or bottle feeding should still be offered a feed. Older children can be offered food, but refusal is not a cause for concern. You may be advised by your doctor or NHS Direct to add a rehydration formula to water.
NHS Direct encourages parents or carers of babies or children showing signs of dehydration, or with very severe diarrhoea and sickness, to contact their GP urgently or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
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