Rotavirus Gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus G2

Rotavirus Gastroenteritis

Rotavirus Gastroenteritis is an infectious disease caused by a strain of the rotavirus, which is the most common cause of severe diarrheal illness and vomiting among infants and young children.

The Rotavirus G2 strain is one of the most common causes of rotavirus gastroenteritis and is responsible for causing approximately one-third of all cases. It is found in over 50 countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. In the United States, rotavirus G2 is responsible for over half of all rotavirus-related hospitalizations.

Rotavirus gastroenteritis is highly contagious and is spread easily from person to person. The virus is found in the stool of an infected person and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, objects, or food. It can also spread through direct contact with an infected person, such as touching their hands or having them sneeze on you.

The primary symptom of rotavirus gastroenteritis is severe diarrhea, which is usually accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain. The diarrhea may be watery or bloody. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Symptoms typically start two to four days after exposure and last for two to five days.

Treatment

Treatment of rotavirus gastroenteritis usually involves supportive care, such as increased fluid intake to replace lost fluids due to diarrhea and vomiting. Oral rehydration solutions are usually recommended, as well as over-the-counter medications to relieve abdominal pain and cramps, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Antibiotics are not usually recommended to treat rotavirus gastroenteritis as they do not work to kill the virus. The infection is usually caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if there are concerns about a bacterial infection.

In addition, the CDC recommends washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before eating. You should also avoid drinking or eating anything that may be contaminated with the virus, and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have been exposed to the virus.

Prevention

The best way to prevent rotavirus gastroenteritis is to get the rotavirus vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for babies aged 6 to 24 weeks and is given by mouth in two or three doses. It is highly effective in preventing rotavirus gastroenteritis.

It is also important to practice good hygiene habits and to make sure that anyone who comes into contact with a baby or young child is up-to-date on their immunizations. Additionally, make sure to wash hands often and to avoid contact with someone who is exhibiting signs of the virus.