Rotavirus, an RNA virus that causes severe gastroenteritis, is affecting a growing number of individuals in the United States, especially infants and the elderly in nursing homes. 7.3% of tests conducted between March and April came back positive, exceeding previous percentages. Experts indicate that the reduction in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic has left more children and infants vulnerable. The vaccination series must be completed before 8 months of age, and the lack of herd immunity is allowing the virus to spread. Dr. Zachary Hoy, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Pediatrix Medical Group, based in Nashville, Tennessee, told Fox News Digital that rotavirus causes severe dehydration, highlighting the complications in young children. Surveillance methods have improved, but the increase in hospital visits is also related to a real increase in cases. “Rotavirus is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, which means that a person comes into contact with droplets of the virus by interacting with other children or adults, or by touching objects such as toys contaminated with the virus by someone who is sick,” he explained. Initial symptoms of rotavirus in infants and the elderly typically include fever and vomiting, followed rapidly by watery diarrhea. Since there are no antiviral treatments, intravenous rehydration is key in managing rotavirus. “The primary treatment is hospitalization for rehydration with intravenous (IV) fluids,” Zachary Hoy told Fox News Digital. “Sometimes, two or three days of intravenous fluids may be necessary to rehydrate patients.”

Pediatricians also advise adhering to the vaccination schedule and reinforcing hygiene practices such as handwashing to prevent infections.

Despite advances in virus detection, awareness of vaccination and preventive measures is essential to control the outbreak and protect the most vulnerable populations.