From the Guidelines
The treatment for rotavirus infection primarily focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration, as there is no specific antiviral medication to eliminate the virus. Oral rehydration therapy is the cornerstone of treatment, using solutions like Pedialyte, Infalyte, or homemade mixtures containing water, salt, and sugar to replace lost fluids and electrolytes 1. For severe dehydration, intravenous fluids may be necessary in a hospital setting. Medications like ondansetron (Zofran) can help control vomiting if severe, while pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can reduce fever and discomfort.
Key Considerations
- Avoid anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium), particularly in children, as they can worsen the infection.
- During recovery, follow the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) and gradually reintroduce normal foods.
- Prevention through rotavirus vaccination (Rotarix or RotaTeq) is highly effective and recommended for infants, as stated in the 2017 IDSA guidelines for the diagnosis and management of infectious diarrhea 1.
Treatment Approach
The approach to treating rotavirus infection involves:
- Managing symptoms to prevent complications
- Preventing dehydration through oral rehydration therapy
- Using medications to control vomiting and reduce fever and discomfort when necessary
- Avoiding certain medications that can worsen the infection
- Gradually reintroducing normal foods during recovery Rotavirus infection typically resolves within 3-8 days as the body's immune system fights off the virus, but maintaining hydration during this period is crucial to prevent complications 1.
From the Research
Treatment of Rotavirus Infection
The treatment of rotavirus infection is primarily symptomatic and focused on managing the symptoms, rather than targeting the virus directly. The key components of treatment include:
- Oral or intravenous rehydration to replace lost fluids and electrolytes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Use of oral rehydration solutions, such as those recommended by the World Health Organization, or lactated Ringer's solutions 3
- Early feeding of an age-appropriate diet 4
Antiviral Therapy
Currently, there is no recommended specific antiviral therapy for rotavirus infection. Although some drugs, such as nitazoxanide, have shown efficacy against rotavirus in vitro and in vivo, they are not commonly used for treatment 2.
Prevention and Vaccination
Prevention of rotavirus infection is crucial, and vaccination is a key strategy. Several vaccines, such as RotaTeq and Rotarix, are available and have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of rotaviral gastroenteritis, particularly severe disease 3, 4, 5. Good hygiene practices, including proper disinfection and handwashing, are also essential in preventing the spread of rotavirus 2.