Definition:
Rotavirus is an infection of a member of the Reoviridae family, it is a genus of double-stranded RNA virus. Ratovirus has 7 species simply named, A, B, C, D, E, F and G, the most common being Ratovirus A. This virus causes severe diarrhea among infants and toddlers.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis for this infection usually follows the identification of gastroenteritis due to severe diarrhea. Stool tests are used for this diagnosis.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for ratovirus, although medication is given to manage its symptoms. The most important treatment is to maintain hydration to avoid complications and even death. Depending on the seriousness of the patient's dehydration, health care providers may administer oral hydration using plain water, water with salts, or water with salts and sugar. Hospitalization may be needed for IV drips or nasogastric tubes.
Symptoms and Signs:
This virus manifests itself though Rotavirus gastroenteritis. It is a
Characterized by mild to severe vomiting, diarrhea, low-grade fever and dehydration. Incubation of the virus is about 2 days before symptoms appear.
Causes:
This virus is passed on from the feacal to oral route. It infects cells that line the small intestines, producing an enterotoxin. This induces gastroenteritis, which leads to severe diarrhea and sometimes death through dehydration.
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