Situation and vulnerability
Small children are particularly vulnerable to water loss. Adults and immunocompromised persons may also be infected.
Signs and limits of their interpretation
Watery diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and abdominal pain may occur. A dry mouth, few tears and less urine suggest dehydration.
Diagnosis and monitoring
The professional first evaluates hydration and severity, then decides on useful examinations. Diarrhoea alone does not identify the virus responsible.
Check these benchmarks in the WHO reference →
Prevention and care
Vaccination reduces severe forms; its timing depends on local recommendations. Propose suitable rehydration and see quickly if the child drinks badly, urine less or becomes unusually sleepy.
Practical issues
Does vaccination prevent any future infection?
No: Reinfections are possible even after vaccination. The protection aims in particular to reduce serious illness; hand hygiene remains complementary.
Preparing for an exchange with a professional
- Age and vaccination
- Drinks, vomiting and number of urine
- Sickness in the environment or community
Bring the full minutes and dates. This information facilitates evaluation; its collection must not delay an urgent appeal.
Image generated by artificial intelligence. AI illustration; it does not depict a disease, biological agent or diagnosis.
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Related fact sheets
These sheets share ways or contexts of exhibition in our catalogue. This reconciliation does not establish a differential diagnosis.
- Hepatitis A
- Adenovirus infection
- Nipah Virus Infection
- Norovirus
- Poliomyelitis
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
Compare Rotavirus Infection with Associated Sheets →
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