What Is Rotavirus? Rotavirus is a common virus that infects the linings of the intestines. It causes vomiting and diarrhea, especially in babies and young children. Childcare centers are a common site of infection outbreaks.
What virus causes watery diarrhea?
Most cases of acute, watery diarrhea are caused by viruses (viral gastroenteritis). The most common ones in children are rotavirus and in adults are norovirus (this is sometimes called “cruise ship diarrhea” due to well publicized epidemics). Bacteria are a common cause of traveler's diarrhea.
Which viruses cause diarrhea?
Viruses that can cause diarrhea include Norwalk virus, cytomegalovirus and viral hepatitis. Rotavirus is a common cause of acute childhood diarrhea.
Viral gastroenteritis can also be spread by sneezing and spitting. Norovirus has become the most common cause of gastroenteritis among young children in the United States since the introduction of rotavirus vaccines.
What do I do if my baby has gastroenteritis?
The main treatment is to keep your child drinking fluids often such as water, oral rehydration solution, breastmilk or formula. It is very important to replace the fluids lost due to the vomiting and diarrhoea.
How long will my child be unwell? The usual duration of diarrhoea is 5-7 days and in most children it stops within 2 weeks. The usual duration of vomiting is 1 or 2 days and in most children it stops within 3 days. This may start with vomiting or diarrhoea.
When should I worry about baby diarrhea?
Suspect diarrhea if the stools suddenly increase in number or looseness. If it lasts for 3 or more stools, the baby has diarrhea. If the stools contain mucus, blood, or smells bad, this points to diarrhea. Other clues to diarrhea are poor eating, acting sick or a fever.
Is banana good for diarrhea in babies?
If diarrhea is severe, give oral rehydration solution between feedings. If your child is doing well after 24 hours, try giving solid foods. These can include cereal, oatmeal, bread, noodles, mashed carrots, mashed bananas, mashed potatoes, applesauce, dry toast, crackers, soups with rice noodles, and cooked vegetables.
What should I do if my baby has loose motions?
Bring your newborn baby to the doctor as soon as possible if they have loose, watery stools for 24 hours, or if diarrhea is accompanied by any of the following symptoms: dehydration. vomiting. fever.
What formula is best for diarrhea?
Avoid cows milk based formula (i.e Enfamil Lipil, Similac Advance, Nestle Good Start) until normal stools resume. Soy based (i.e. Prosobee, Isomil) or Lactose free formulas are OK. Offer oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte) or other clear fluids (sugar water/tea).
