From the Guidelines
The biggest complication of rotavirus infection is severe dehydration, which can be life-threatening, especially in infants and young children. Rotavirus causes acute gastroenteritis leading to profuse watery diarrhea, vomiting, and fever that can rapidly deplete body fluids and electrolytes, as noted in a study by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) 1. This dehydration may progress to hypovolemic shock, electrolyte imbalances, metabolic acidosis, and acute kidney injury if not promptly treated.
Some key points to consider about rotavirus infection complications include:
- Severe, dehydrating gastroenteritis occurs primarily among children aged 3--35 months 1
- The illness can begin abruptly, with vomiting often preceding the onset of diarrhea, and up to one third of patients have a temperature of >102°F (>39°C) 1
- Gastrointestinal symptoms generally resolve in 3--7 days, but can lead to serious complications if not managed properly
- Other serious complications include seizures due to fever or electrolyte disturbances, and rarely, encephalitis or encephalopathy affecting the brain
- Immunocompromised patients may develop prolonged and more severe infections, sometimes with systemic spread
In terms of treatment and prevention, it is essential to focus on oral or intravenous rehydration therapy depending on severity, with close monitoring of vital signs and electrolyte levels. Prevention through rotavirus vaccination (Rotarix or RotaTeq) has dramatically reduced severe cases and hospitalizations worldwide, as the virus is highly contagious and environmental disinfection alone is insufficient for prevention, as highlighted in a study on the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis among infants and children 1.
From the Research
Complications of Rotavirus Infection
The biggest complications of rotavirus infection include:
- Dehydration due to severe diarrhea and vomiting 2, 3, 4, 5
- Electrolyte imbalance, which can lead to severe consequences if left untreated 4
- Septicemia, which can be associated with severe consequences such as septic shock, endocarditis, and even death 4
- Fatal complications, including death, particularly in developing countries where rotavirus disease is a significant cause of mortality 3, 6
Severity and Mortality
Rotavirus infection can cause severe disease, particularly in infants and young children, with significant morbidity and mortality in developing countries 2, 3, 6. The disease can lead to severe fluid and electrolyte imbalance, development of fatal complications, and even death if left untreated 4.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment of rotavirus infection is primarily supportive, aimed at replacing fluid and electrolyte losses, and preventing dehydration 2, 3, 5. Vaccination is the primary public health intervention for rotavirus infection, with current vaccines effective in reducing rotaviral gastroenteritis, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations 2, 6.