What are the main symptoms of viral gastroenteritis. How is stomach flu transmitted. Can viral gastroenteritis be cured. What are the best ways to prevent viral gastroenteritis.

Understanding Viral Gastroenteritis: The Stomach Flu

Viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, is an infection that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Despite its name, it’s not related to influenza viruses. Instead, various viruses can trigger this condition, including rotaviruses, noroviruses, adenoviruses, sapoviruses, and astroviruses.

Is viral gastroenteritis the same as norovirus infection. While norovirus is a common cause of viral gastroenteritis, it’s not the only one. Noroviruses are highly contagious and often responsible for outbreaks in community and institutional settings. However, other viruses can also lead to gastroenteritis symptoms.

Transmission and Spread of Viral Gastroenteritis

How does viral gastroenteritis spread. The stomach flu is highly contagious and can be transmitted through various means:

• Consuming contaminated food or drinks
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Sharing food, water, or eating utensils with someone who is infected

Can food handlers spread viral gastroenteritis. Yes, food preparers or handlers who have viral gastroenteritis can contaminate food, especially if they don’t wash their hands properly after using the bathroom. This is why it’s crucial for those with symptoms to avoid preparing food for others while sick and for 48 hours after recovery.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Stomach Flu

What are the primary signs of viral gastroenteritis. The main symptoms include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps

How long do symptoms of viral gastroenteritis typically last. Symptoms usually begin 1 to 2 days after infection and can persist for 1 to 10 days, depending on the specific virus causing the illness.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Viral Gastroenteritis

Is there a specific test for viral gastroenteritis. While laboratory tests can identify the virus causing gastroenteritis, doctors often diagnose the condition based on symptoms and physical examination. In most cases, specific testing isn’t necessary unless there’s a severe outbreak or for public health investigations.

Can viral gastroenteritis be cured. There’s no specific cure for viral gastroenteritis. The illness typically resolves on its own without long-term complications. The primary focus of treatment is preventing dehydration by maintaining fluid intake.

Managing Symptoms and Preventing Dehydration

What’s the most important aspect of treating viral gastroenteritis. Preventing severe fluid loss (dehydration) is crucial. This should begin at home, and your doctor may provide specific instructions on suitable fluids to consume. It’s generally advisable to avoid medications, including antibiotics, unless specifically recommended by a physician.

Prevention Strategies for Viral Gastroenteritis

How can individuals protect themselves and their families from viral gastroenteritis. Several preventive measures can reduce the risk of infection:

1. Frequent hand-washing with soap and water
2. Prompt disinfection of contaminated surfaces
3. Immediate washing of soiled clothing
4. Avoiding potentially contaminated food or water
5. Refraining from preparing food for others while sick and for 48 hours after recovery

Are there any specific precautions for food handlers. Yes, individuals who prepare or handle food should be especially vigilant about hand hygiene and should not work while experiencing symptoms of viral gastroenteritis. This helps prevent the spread of the virus through contaminated food.

Viral Gastroenteritis in Different Populations

Does viral gastroenteritis affect all age groups equally. While anyone can contract viral gastroenteritis, certain groups are more vulnerable to severe symptoms and complications:

• Young children
• Older adults
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

How does viral gastroenteritis impact these high-risk groups. These populations may experience more severe dehydration and require medical intervention more frequently. In some cases, hospitalization might be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

The Role of Norovirus in Gastroenteritis Outbreaks

Why is norovirus often associated with gastroenteritis outbreaks. Norovirus is highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making it a common cause of outbreaks in settings where people are in close contact, such as:

• Cruise ships
• Nursing homes
• Schools
• Restaurants

How quickly can a norovirus outbreak spread. Norovirus outbreaks can escalate rapidly due to the virus’s high infectivity and short incubation period. A single infected person can potentially infect dozens of others within a short timeframe.

Complications and Long-term Effects of Viral Gastroenteritis

Are there any serious complications associated with viral gastroenteritis. While most cases resolve without long-term issues, severe dehydration can lead to complications, especially in vulnerable populations. These may include:

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Kidney problems
• In rare cases, neurological symptoms

Can viral gastroenteritis have lasting effects on gut health. Some individuals may experience temporary lactose intolerance or food sensitivities following a bout of viral gastroenteritis. These effects typically resolve as the gut heals, but in rare cases, post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome may develop.

Recovery and Returning to Normal Activities

When is it safe to return to work or school after viral gastroenteritis. Generally, individuals should wait at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved before returning to normal activities. This helps prevent the spread of the virus to others.

How long does it take to fully recover from viral gastroenteritis. While symptoms typically subside within a few days, complete recovery, including the restoration of normal eating habits and energy levels, may take up to a week or more in some cases.

Global Impact and Epidemiology of Viral Gastroenteritis

How prevalent is viral gastroenteritis worldwide. Viral gastroenteritis is a significant global health issue, affecting millions of people annually across all continents. It’s particularly problematic in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation.

Are there seasonal patterns in viral gastroenteritis occurrence. Some forms of viral gastroenteritis, particularly those caused by rotavirus, show seasonal patterns. In temperate climates, rotavirus infections often peak in winter months, while in tropical regions, the seasonality may be less pronounced.

Economic and Social Impact

What is the economic burden of viral gastroenteritis. The illness results in substantial economic costs due to:

• Healthcare expenses
• Lost productivity
• Absenteeism from work and school

How does viral gastroenteritis affect developing countries. In developing nations, viral gastroenteritis can have severe consequences, particularly for children. It’s a leading cause of childhood mortality in areas with limited access to healthcare and clean water.

Advancements in Prevention and Control

Are there vaccines available for viral gastroenteritis. Vaccines have been developed for some forms of viral gastroenteritis, particularly rotavirus. These vaccines have significantly reduced the incidence of severe rotavirus infections in many countries.

What new strategies are being developed to combat viral gastroenteritis. Ongoing research focuses on:

• Developing vaccines for other gastroenteritis-causing viruses, such as norovirus
• Improving diagnostic techniques for rapid identification of specific viral strains
• Enhancing public health surveillance systems to detect and respond to outbreaks more efficiently

The Role of Public Health Measures

How do public health initiatives help control viral gastroenteritis. Public health efforts play a crucial role in managing and preventing viral gastroenteritis through:

1. Education campaigns on proper hygiene and food handling
2. Implementation of food safety regulations
3. Monitoring and responding to outbreaks
4. Promoting vaccination programs where applicable

Can improved sanitation reduce the incidence of viral gastroenteritis. Yes, enhanced sanitation practices, particularly in developing regions, can significantly reduce the spread of viruses that cause gastroenteritis. This includes improving access to clean water and proper waste management systems.

Viral Gastroenteritis in Special Circumstances

How does viral gastroenteritis affect pregnant women. Pregnant women may be at higher risk for severe dehydration from viral gastroenteritis, which can potentially affect the pregnancy. Close monitoring and proper hydration are crucial for expectant mothers with the illness.

Are there special considerations for viral gastroenteritis in healthcare settings. Healthcare facilities must implement strict infection control measures to prevent the spread of viral gastroenteritis, including:

• Isolating infected patients
• Rigorous hand hygiene protocols
• Proper disinfection of surfaces and equipment
• Restricting visitors during outbreaks

Traveler’s Diarrhea and Viral Gastroenteritis

Is traveler’s diarrhea the same as viral gastroenteritis. While traveler’s diarrhea can be caused by viruses that lead to gastroenteritis, it can also be bacterial or parasitic in origin. Travelers should take precautions to avoid contaminated food and water, regardless of the specific cause.

What precautions should travelers take to avoid viral gastroenteritis. Travelers can reduce their risk by:

1. Drinking only bottled or boiled water
2. Avoiding raw or undercooked foods
3. Practicing good hand hygiene
4. Being cautious with street food and unpasteurized dairy products

Emerging Research and Future Directions

What new insights are researchers gaining about viral gastroenteritis. Recent studies have focused on:

• The role of the gut microbiome in susceptibility and recovery from viral gastroenteritis
• Genetic factors that may influence an individual’s risk of severe symptoms
• Novel antiviral treatments that could potentially shorten the duration of illness

How might climate change impact the spread of viral gastroenteritis. Climate change could potentially alter the geographic distribution and seasonality of viruses that cause gastroenteritis. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns may affect virus survival in the environment and human behavior, potentially leading to shifts in disease patterns.

The Promise of Personalized Medicine

Could personalized medicine play a role in managing viral gastroenteritis. As our understanding of individual genetic and immunological factors grows, there’s potential for more tailored approaches to prevention and treatment. This could include personalized risk assessments and targeted interventions based on an individual’s specific vulnerabilities.

What role might artificial intelligence play in predicting and managing outbreaks. AI and machine learning algorithms could potentially:

• Predict outbreaks based on environmental and population data
• Optimize resource allocation during public health responses
• Enhance early warning systems for emerging viral strains

As research continues to advance our understanding of viral gastroenteritis, new strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and management are likely to emerge. While the illness remains a significant public health challenge, ongoing efforts in science, public health, and healthcare promise to improve our ability to combat this common but potentially serious condition.

Viral Gastroenteritis and Norovirus – Disease Prevention and Control, San Francisco Department of Public Health

What is viral gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis means inflammation of the stomach and small and large intestines. Viral gastroenteritis is an infection caused by a variety of viruses that results in vomiting or diarrhea. It is often called the “stomach flu”, although it is not caused by the influenza viruses. Many different viruses can cause gastroenteritis, including rotaviruses, noroviruses, adenoviruses, sapoviruses, and astroviruses.

What is Norovirus?

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis and are very infectious. They are a frequent cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks in community and institutional settings.

How do people get viral gastroenteritis?

People can become infected by eating or drinking contaminated foods or beverages, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their mouth. Food (especially shellfish) and water may be contaminated by sewage. Food may be contaminated by food preparers or handlers who have viral gastroenteritis, especially if they do not wash their hands regularly after using the bathroom.

Can I catch viral gastroenteritis from someone?

Yes, viral gastroenteritis is contagious. It is spread through close contact with infected persons (for example, by sharing food, water, or eating utensils) or by touching surfaces contaminated by an infected person and then touching one’s mouth.

How can I protect myself and my family from getting sick with viral gastroenteritis?

People can reduce their chance of getting infected by frequent hand-washing, prompt disinfection of contaminated surfaces, prompt washing of soiled articles of clothing and avoiding food or water that is thought to be contaminated.  Persons who have viral gastroenteritis should not prepare food for other people while they have symptoms and for 48 hours after recovery from illness.

What are the signs of viral gastroenteritis?

The main symptoms of viral gastroenteritis are watery diarrhea and vomiting. The affected person may also have headache, fever, and abdominal cramps (“stomach ache”). In general, the symptoms begin 1 to 2 days following infection with a virus that causes gastroenteritis and may last for 1 to 10 days, depending on which virus causes the illness.

Is there a cure for viral gastroenteritis?

There is no cure, however almost all people who get viral gastroenteritis recover completely without any long-term problems. The most important thing to do for people with viral gastroenteritis is prevent severe loss of fluids (dehydration). This treatment should begin at home. Your physician may give you specific instructions about what kinds of fluids to give. Medications, including antibiotics (which have no effect on viruses) and other treatments, should be avoided unless specifically recommended by a physician.

Useful Viral Gastroenteritis links

• Viral Gastroenteritis Disease Control Resources
• CDC Norovirus Information

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What is gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. The main symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. It is usually not serious in healthy people, but it can sometimes lead to dehydration or cause severe symptoms.

What causes gastroenteritis?

There can be many different causes of gastroenteritis:

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Parasites
• Chemicals
• Reactions to certain medicines and food

Viral gastroenteritis is the most common type. It can be caused by many different viruses, including noroviruses and rotaviruses. Some people call viral gastroenteritis the “stomach flu.” But this name is not medically correct. It is not caused by flu viruses. The flu is a respiratory infection that affects your nose, throat and lungs.

When gastroenteritis is caused by consuming foods or drinks contaminated with viruses, bacteria, parasites, or chemicals, this is called food poisoning.

The viruses, bacteria, and parasites that cause gastroenteritis can also spread from person to person. You could be infected when you touch something that has the germs on it and then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose.

What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis?

The symptoms of gastroenteritis include:

• Diarrhea
• Pain or cramping in your abdomen (belly)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sometimes fever

Gastroenteritis is usually not serious. But it can sometimes cause lead to dehydration or cause severe symptoms. Certain people are at higher risk for these problems. They include:

• Pregnant women
• Older adults
• People with weakened immune systems or other serious health conditions
• Infants
• Babies who were born prematurely or have other health conditions

If you or a family member are at higher risk and have symptoms of gastroenteritis, contact a health care provider right away.
Even if you are not at high risk, it is possible to become dehydrated or have more serious symptoms. There are some warning signs to watch for. It’s important to contact a provider right away if you or your child have any of them:

• For adults, they include:
  • Change in mental state, such as irritability or lack of energy
  • Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
  • High fever
  • Vomiting often
  • Six or more loose stools in a day
  • Severe pain in the abdomen (belly) or rectum
  • Stools that are black and tarry or contain blood or pus
  • Symptoms of dehydration, such as thirst, dry mouth, headache, dark-colored urine, and urinating less than normal
• For infants and children, they include:
  • Change in the child’s mental state, such as irritability or lack of energy
  • Diarrhea lasting more than a day
  • Any fever in infants
  • High fever in older children
  • Frequent loose stools
  • Vomiting often
  • Severe pain in the abdomen (belly) or rectum
  • Signs or symptoms of dehydration, such as thirst, dry mouth, urinating less than usual or no wet diapers for 3 hours or more, and no tears when crying
  • Stools that are black and tarry or contain blood or pus

How is gastroenteritis diagnosed?

To find out if you have gastroenteritis, your provider:

• Will do a physical exam
• Will ask about your symptoms
• May do tests of your stool

What are the treatments for gastroenteritis?

Usually, people with gastroenteritis get better on their own, with rest and plenty of fluids and electrolytes. Your provider may suggest that you take a probiotic. Studies suggest that some probiotics may help shorten a case of diarrhea.

People with more severe symptoms may need medicines to control nausea or vomiting. Providers may also give other medicines for certain types of gastroenteritis, such as antibiotics for some bacterial types and antiparasitic medicines for some parasitic types.

Can gastroenteritis be prevented?

Gastroenteritis cannot always be prevented. But proper hand washing, cleaning surfaces that may be infected with germs, and safe food preparation may help prevent some of the infections that can cause gastroenteritis. There are vaccines for infants to protect against rotavirus infections.

NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

• Viral Gastroenteritis

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• Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)

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• Bacteria Culture Test

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• Hand Washing: Do’s and Dont’s

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• Stomach Flu: How Long Am I Contagious?

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• ClinicalTrials. gov: Gastroenteritis

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• Article: Comparison of IgA Antibody Titer Induced by Human-Bovine Rotavirus Candidate Vaccine. ..

• Article: Adrenal insufficiency management in the pediatric emergency setting and risk factors…

• Article: Detection of rotavirus and norovirus among children with acute gastroenteritis in. ..

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Rotavirus infection (rotavirus): symptoms, causes and treatment

Author, editor and medical expert – Anna Alexandrovna Petrashevich.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Views: 1 868 449

Date Last Updated: 5/31/2023

Average Read Time: 8 minutes

Rotavirus infection in adults
How contagious is rotavirus
Does rotavirus cause “stomach flu”?
Symptoms of rotavirus infection in adults
How can you get infected with rotavirus?
Rotavirus or rotavirus?
Diagnosis
Rotavirus infection during pregnancy
Complications
How to treat rotavirus infection in adults?
Is it possible to get rotavirus infection again?
Prevention of rotavirus infection in adults

Rotavirus infection in adults

Rotavirus is a rather “young” virus discovered by scientists not so long ago ¹ . In 2023, only 30 years have passed since its official registration in Russia as one of the causative agents of acute intestinal infection (AII) ⁸ . Today, more than 80% of AIIs of viral origin are due to rotavirus ¹¹ . And although this pathogen attacks children more often, adults also risk lying for several days with diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting ¹¹ .

How to distinguish rotavirus infection in adults from food allergies, poisoning and other intestinal disorders? Let’s figure it out.

How contagious is rotavirus

The insidiousness of the virus is that it is very stable in the external environment ¹ . The causative agent is not afraid of low temperatures, repeated freezing and disinfectants ^1.3 . Can remain viable for a long time in an open environment. Imagine that it can stay on hands for 4 hours or longer, on various surfaces – up to 10 days, on unwashed vegetables and fruits – up to a month, and in feces – up to 7 months ¹ . And only 10 viral particles can cause infection in humans ¹¹ . Since the virus is not afraid of the cold ⁴ , it is easy for them to become infected in winter and spring. The peak incidence falls from December to April ¹ .

However, rotavirus is afraid of treatment with strong acidic or alkaline agents and quickly dies when boiled ³ .

Does rotavirus cause “stomach flu”?

Rotavirus prefers to attack the stomach and intestines, in medicine their simultaneous inflammation is called gastroenteritis ¹ . Based on this, as well as observations that rotavirus gastroenteritis is more often recorded during the flu season, the disease has received the popular name “intestinal or stomach flu” ^10.11 .

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Symptoms of rotavirus infection in adults

The virus enters the human body through the mouth, reaches the small intestine, enters the cells, destroys them and causes a response of the immune system ^1.4 . The incubation (hidden) period of the disease is from 14-16 hours to a week ¹¹ . Then there are symptoms of general intoxication – fever with a rise in temperature up to 38-39 ° C, weakness, lethargy, headache, loss of appetite ⁴ . Along with this, typical symptoms of rotavirus gastroenteritis develop ^{1, 12} .

• Vomiting. In more than half of patients, the disease begins with vomiting. It is usually single, less often repeated and almost always stops already on the first day of the disease. In some adults, rotavirus gastroenteritis begins immediately with vomiting and diarrhea ¹² .
• Diarrhea. Strong urge to defecate comes on suddenly ¹² . In mild cases, the feces become mushy, excreted 1-2 times a day, in severe cases, the stool becomes watery ¹² , the bowels are emptied about 4-7 times a day ¹³ . Possible impurities of greenish and yellow-green color, mucus in the feces ¹² .
• Pain, bloating and rumbling. Adults may complain of moderate cramping pain in the stomach, loud rumbling in the stomach audible at a distance ¹² .

Quite often, along with intestinal manifestations, typical symptoms of a cold develop: nasal congestion, cough, redness and sore throat ¹³ .

How does diarrhea develop with rotavirus infection?

First, the stool becomes watery due to the efforts of the rotavirus itself. It damages the mature cells of the small intestine, in their place come “young”, not yet able to absorb simple carbohydrates (sugars), such as glucose or lactose. The inability to absorb them disrupts the entire process of digestion. Carbohydrates remain in the intestinal lumen and attract water, making the stool liquid ^1,4,11 .

Rotavirus also creates additional problems that can lead to diarrhea:

• Affects the intestinal nervous system. On the one hand, this causes an increased release of fluid and salts into the intestinal lumen, on the other hand, peristalsis (intestinal contractions) is stimulated ¹¹ .
• Violates the composition of the intestinal microflora. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms ⁴ begin to multiply actively on the intestinal mucosa, due to which the frequency of stools ⁴ changes.

How long do the symptoms bother me?

High fever usually persists for 2-4 days ³ Vomiting 1-2 days ¹¹ Diarrhea 4 days ¹¹ The stool usually returns to its normal shape within a week of ⁴ . Full recovery occurs only 10-14 days after the disappearance of symptoms – all this time the person remains contagious to others ⁶ .

In adults, rotavirus infection is mild or asymptomatic. Even the temperature may not always rise, and the mark on the thermometer usually exceeds 38 ° C. The sick person often carries the disease without suspecting that they are infected with rotavirus ¹² . But the symptoms and course of AII also depend on the state of the adult’s immune system and the subtype (strain) of the virus that has entered the body ^1.6 .

How can you get infected with rotavirus?

It is no coincidence that rotavirus gastroenteritis is called “dirty hands disease” ⁷ . The pathogen is transmitted through contaminated food, water and contact with contaminated objects. Adults are at risk of contracting the virus by swimming in stagnant water, eating undercooked food, or eating dairy products ^4,6,7 . Airborne transmission of viruses is also possible, for example, during vomiting, coughing, sneezing and when talking ⁴ , when the viruses get into the air ^1,3,7 .

After the 4-5th day of illness, the number of viruses in the stool decreases, but the person remains contagious for another 2-3 weeks, until the pathogen completely leaves the body ¹² . In people with weakened immune systems, chronic diseases of the stomach and intestines, lactase deficiency, rotavirus remains in the body even longer ¹² . Such people are called healthy virus carriers: they have no symptoms of the disease, but they remain a source of infection for others, since the virus continues to be shed in feces ¹² .

Virus carriers can be, for example ¹¹ :

• children in kindergarten or hospital;
• medical staff of maternity hospitals, hospitals and infectious diseases departments.

Rotavirus or rotavirus?

It might seem that the name of the virus comes from the fact that it enters the body through the mouth. In fact, “rota” is translated from Latin as “wheel” ^1,4,6 . Where did this “wheel” come from? Australian scientists, studying the mucous membranes of children with gastroenteritis under an electron microscope in 1973, noticed that the cells were affected by particles of a new virus. It had the shape of a wheel with short spokes and a well-defined thin rim – a typical bicycle wheel. This was the reason for the name of the new pathogen ^1.8 .

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Diagnosis

Is it easy to identify if you have rotavirus infection by these symptoms? Not at all, because there are other OKIs that manifest themselves in a similar way, and only a specialist can diagnose0135 2 . Therefore, when diarrhea and high fever appear, you should immediately call a doctor at home, without waiting for the disease to go away by itself.

The doctor may suspect the disease by some of the symptoms – watery stools, vomiting and high fever ^2.4 .

Also important for diagnosis are factors such as ^2.4 :

• patient’s age;
• season;
• Suspected source of exposure, such as attending daycare or having a family member with rotavirus.

But since rotavirus does not have specific symptoms inherent only to it, additional laboratory diagnostics is necessarily carried out – an analysis of feces for the detection of rotavirus antigens in it ⁴ .

Rotavirus infection in pregnancy

Although rotavirus does not usually have adverse effects on the fetus, it can sometimes affect the course of pregnancy ⁵ . Mild forms of rotavirus infection, as a rule, proceed without complications. But severe AII, accompanied by acute diarrhea, can lead to termination of pregnancy. This is due to the proximity of the location of the uterus and intestines and their common nerve connections. When intestinal contractions intensify, spasms, flatulence appear, this is reflexively transmitted to the uterus and increases its tone ⁵ .

Complications

In 90% of cases, rotavirus does not cause complications ^3.8 , only with a weakened immune system there is a risk that the disease will leave consequences. At risk ⁶ :

• older people over 60;
• pregnant and breastfeeding women;
• adults with chronic diseases.

The main danger of the disease is dehydration ² . But in adults, this is rare when infected with rotavirus, since the disease is usually mild ¹² . Still, be careful: if, against the background of profuse diarrhea, you notice that there is less urine, it means that you are dehydrated and you need to take measures ^{9. 11} .

How to treat rotavirus infection in adults?

Treatment is usually done at home. Those who are ill with a severe form of AII, as well as those who have complications of the disease, are subject to hospitalization ³ .

The treatment of rotavirus infection is always complex and includes several stages ² :

• Rehydration (soldering) is the most important part of the treatment. The sick person needs to drink as much liquid as possible, ideally these should be special water-salt solutions prescribed by a doctor ^2.4 .
• Diet – promotes healing of affected areas of the intestine ^2.4 . Vegetables, fruits, legumes, milk and dairy products should be excluded from the menu – everything that the intestines cannot absorb at the moment ¹¹ . The basis of the diet is boiled food: cereals, light soups and vegetable purees ⁹ . This diet should be followed for 2-3 weeks after a rotavirus infection ¹¹ .
• Sorption therapy – the use of drugs that absorb all harmful substances from the small intestine and protect its cells from re-damage ^2.4 .
• Additional preparations – enzymes and probiotics. Pancreatic enzymes improve impaired digestion by facilitating the absorption of carbohydrates. Probiotics help restore the composition of the microbiota ¹¹ .
• Symptomatic treatment – antidiarrheal drugs. Loperamide, the active ingredient in Imodium® Express ¹⁴ , can be used to relieve diarrhea. The drug slows down peristalsis, at the same time increases the tone of the anal sphincter, thereby alleviating diarrhea and reducing the risk of fecal incontinence ¹⁴ . Lyophilisate tablets do not need to be taken with water, they dissolve on the tongue in a few seconds ¹⁴ . Imodium® Express begins to fight diarrhea within 1 hour after taking ¹⁵ , and its maximum effect is reached after 4-6 hours ¹⁴ . For infectious diarrhea, any antidiarrheal drugs, including Imodium® Express, are used only as adjuvant treatment ¹⁴ .

Please note!

Rotavirus gastroenteritis is not treated with antibiotics. This is not only useless (antibiotics do not act on viruses), but also dangerous, since antibacterial agents taken without a doctor’s prescription can further aggravate dysbacteriosis and cause chronic diarrhea ² .

Is it possible to get rotavirus infection again?

In order to form strong immunity, it is necessary to have been ill with rotavirus gastroenteritis 3 times, and in a short period of time. And even then, the body will only be able to defend itself against one specific rotavirus ⁴ . The intestines will still be vulnerable to other variants of the virus ⁴ .

At least 7 groups of the pathogen are known – A, B, C, D, E, F, G, each has a special structural protein of the inner shell ¹¹ . A person can become infected with rotavirus types A, B, and C. In children, outbreaks of rotavirus gastroenteritis are caused by type A virus, and this group also has different subtypes. Adults, even those who have had a “childhood” variant, may have cases of infection with rotavirus B and C ¹¹ .

Prevention of rotavirus infection in adults

The best way to prevent rotavirus infection is vaccination ¹ . It contributes to the formation of immunity against specific strains (subspecies), thereby reducing the total number of cases and the number of severe forms of this infection ^1.4 . The rotavirus vaccine is a liquid that is taken by mouth. It contains weakened virus particles ^1.6 . If you use it in a child, having matured, he will be better protected from rotaviruses.

But, given that there are many rotaviruses, you need to follow basic hygiene rules so that other members of the group have no chance of getting into the gastrointestinal tract ^6,7,10 :

• Wash your hands with hot water and soap, especially before cooking, before eating, after returning from the street or using the toilet.
• Wash vegetables, fruits and berries only with boiled water or pour boiling water over them. And for cutting raw foods, use a separate board and knife.
• Boil water and milk before drinking.
• Avoid eating in crowded places, especially if you are there with small children.
• Do not drink or eat on the go.
• Regularly wipe door handles, plumbing fixtures, mobile phones, car interior appliances, computer keyboards with antiseptics – the things with which hands most often come into contact.
• If you have a small child, communicate with him only in clean clothes, change clothes when you get home. You should not contact the baby in working things or in those in which you cook food.
• Track the health status of all family members. When the first symptoms of acute intestinal infections appear, the patient should be isolated if possible and immediately consult a doctor.

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice.