Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a very common and highly contagious stomach bug that primarily affects babies and young children. It causes severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. While unpleasant, most children recover fully with proper care.
Common symptoms
- Severe watery diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, decreased urination, lethargy)
- Irritability
Cause
Rotavirus is caused by a virus.
How common is it?
Before vaccination became routine, rotavirus caused nearly all severe diarrheal disease in U.S. infants and young children. Thanks to vaccination programs started in 2006, rotavirus hospitalizations have declined by more than 80%. However, unvaccinated children remain at significant risk.
Treatment
There's no specific medicine to cure rotavirus, so treatment focuses on preventing dehydration. Offer frequent small sips of oral rehydration solution (ORS) or clear fluids like water or diluted juice. Avoid sugary drinks and full-strength juices, as they can worsen diarrhea.
What parents keep on hand
These are everyday supplies parents tell us they like to have on hand, not medical advice. Nothing here diagnoses or treats anything. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance, and check labels for your child's age and weight.
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- Oral rehydration drinks or freezer popsSmall sips keep fluids up when a child refuses to drink.
Pedialyte Electrolyte Powder Packets (Variety Pack)On-the-go powder packets in grape, fruit punch, strawberry, and orange. Mix with water for fast rehydration from the #1 doctor-recommended brand.
Pedialyte Electrolyte Solution Freezer Pops (64ct)Frozen pops with three key electrolytes and four fruit flavors. Great for toddlers who refuse a cup; small sips add up fast.
- Small sick-day bucketKeep one by the bed. You will be glad you did.
FDFuZhao 50-pc kids emesis bags (cartoon pattern)Disposable, leak-proof, self-sealing bags with a fun cartoon print that takes some of the scare out of being sick. About 34 oz / 1000 ml each; twist and notch to seal odors in, then toss.
CLOUDBERG 24-pc emesis bags (1000 ml)Medical-grade, leak-resistant disposable bags with a wide rim and graduated markings. Folds small enough for a glove box or backpack; a calm blue option for older kids and adults too.
- Oral rehydration solutionPlain water is not enough when a child is losing fluids fast.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent rotavirus is through vaccination, which is recommended for infants. Good handwashing with soap and water, especially after diaper changes and before eating, is also crucial to limit the spread of the virus.
See what's going around
Track Rotavirus and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.
Frequently asked questions
Rotavirus articles for parents
- December 2025Stomach Bug Alert: Norovirus Spreading in Chicago SchoolsNorovirus outbreaks are hitting Chicago daycares and schools hard this winter. Here's how to prevent it and what to do if it strikes your family.
- October 2025When Should Kids Stay Home from School?Guidelines to help parents make the tough call about keeping sick kids home.
- December 2025Managing School Sick Days: A Chicago Working Parent's Survival GuideWhen your child is sick and you have work, something has to give. Practical strategies for Chicago parents juggling careers and caregiving.
Related illness guides
Medical disclaimer: Educational only. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.