Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe diarrhea in children. It is highly contagious, and outbreaks in the U.S. occur from November through April. Although rotavirus causes disease in both children and adults, children typically have the most severe symptoms at the time of their first exposure, which usually occurs by age 3 to 5. Among children, rotavirus is typically a 3 to 8 day illness characterized by watery diarrhea and vomiting. Humans are susceptible to rotavirus throughout life, though the illness tends to be milder among those who have had the virus before.
Diarrhea
Rotavirus infects the cells that line the small intestine, causing frequent, watery diarrhea. Notably, the diarrhea does not contain blood or mucus, which helps distinguish rotavirus from other diarrheal illnesses. In children, diarrhea usually lasts for 4 to 5 days. In adults, diarrhea is usually less severe and often of shorter duration.
Nausea and Vomiting
In children, vomiting often precedes the onset of diarrhea and typically lasts 2 to 3 days. Adults may have stomach upset and nausea, with or without vomiting.
Abdominal Pain
Rotavirus gastroenteritis frequently causes crampy abdominal pain in both children and adults. You may notice gurgling noises coming from your child's abdomen due to the rapid movement of watery stool and gas through the intestines.
Fever
Low fever can be a symptom of rotavirus, though it may be absent. If fever is present, it typically resolves within 2 to 3 days.
Runny Nose and Cough
A runny nose and cough may precede the onset of vomiting and diarrhea in children.
Skin Changes
Vomiting and diarrhea may cause dehydration, especially in infants and young children. This can be a serious complication and medical treatment may be necessary to replenish fluids. Skin changes to be watchful for include paleness, mottling, dryness inside the mouth and absence of tears.
Thirst and Decreased Urine Output
Decreased urination and thirst are also symptoms of dehydration. If these symptoms occur, medical treatment may be needed to replenish lost fluids.
Lethargy, Sleepiness and Irritability
Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause both fluid and electrolyte problems, which may lead to symptoms such as decreased activity level (lethargy), excessive sleepiness and irritability. Be especially mindful of these symptoms in infants and young children as their condition can deteriorate quickly. If in doubt about any symptoms you notice in your child during a gastrointestinal illness, call your doctor.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About rotavirus
- Medline Plus: Rotavirus
- "Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, Sixth Edition"; Gerald L. Mandell, M.D., John E. Bennett, M.D., Raphael Dolin, M.D., Editors; 2004
- Mayo Clinic: Rotavirus symptoms
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, MMWR: Prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis among infants and children (2006)
