Rotaviruses 

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Mainly affects children under the age of 5 years.

One of the most common causes of child mortality in developing countries.

 

Transmission

Transmission- faecal- oral route

Incubation period is between 1 to 3 days.

 

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Clinical presentations

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Severe diarrhoea- watery

Vomiting is not the prominent signs.

Dehydration is common.

 

Complications

Dehydration- hypovolumic shock

Renal failure

 

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Investigation

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In severely dehydrated patients –CBC and Electrolytes

 

Diagnostic Tests

Stool sample

ü      Latex agglutination- rapid and cheaper.

ü      EIA- more sensitive

ü      Electron microscopy- may be helpful to detect more than one pathogen

ü      PAGE- Polyacramide gel electrophoresis

 

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Management

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Patient isolation

Hygienic care-hand washing

Increase fluid intake and continue breast feeding.

Oral rehydration salt (ORS) can be given for children with mild to moderate dehydration.

Intravenous fluid should be given to children with severe dehydration or with persistent vomiting.

 

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Prevention

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Proper hygienic care reduces the incidence of rotavirus.

Proper waste disposal is important to control community outbreak.

There are two types of vaccines. At least one of them will be licensed in the coming year.