Treating, diagnosing, and prescribing for Rotavirus infection.
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Can a doctor address a rotavirus infection through Laso MD?
Absolutely. Typically, a Laso MD doctor can provide a diagnosis for rotavirus by assessing the child’s condition and engaging in a discussion about symptoms.
The doctor might also advise you to bring a stool sample to a clinic or lab for confirmation of the diagnosis and to exclude other potential causes.
While rare in adults, rotavirus may manifest with mild symptoms or be asymptomatic for those affected.
Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?
Certainly, our doctors can issue online prescriptions as part of your consultation. Upon accepting the prescription, you’ll have the choice to retrieve it from any pharmacy or opt for free delivery to your doorstep.
What is rotavirus infection?
Rotavirus is a highly prevalent infection, commonly affecting young children, leading to inflammation in the stomach and intestines and resulting in severe diarrhea. The typical duration of symptoms ranges from three to eight days.
Before the availability of the rotavirus vaccine, it was common for children to experience at least one rotavirus infection before the age of 5.
What are the symptoms of rotavirus infection?
Common symptoms of rotavirus include:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Fever
- Diarrhea
While these symptoms are considered normal, immediate medical attention is advised if your child exhibits:
- Black or tarry stool
- Bloody stool
- Pus in their stool
- Frequent vomiting
- Severe diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Extreme lethargy or irritability
- Severe pain
- Symptoms of dehydration (excessive thirst, crying without tears, unusual sleepiness, dry mouth, becoming unresponsive)
- A fever of 104 F (40 C) or higher
What causes rotavirus infection?
Rotavirus is transmitted through fecal-oral contact. The virus is present in the infected person’s stool for several days before symptoms appear and up to 10 days after symptoms have ceased. If proper hand washing is not performed, the virus can spread to objects like toys, clothes, utensils, and surfaces, remaining active for weeks unless sanitized. Transmission is facilitated in environments like schools and daycares if thorough cleaning is neglected.
How is rotavirus infection treated?
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for rotavirus, and antiviral and antibiotic medications are ineffective. The primary concern during a rotavirus infection is dehydration. Due to the frequent and sometimes severe diarrhea, it’s crucial to monitor for signs of dehydration and encourage increased fluid intake. If dehydration becomes a concern, consulting a doctor on Laso MD is recommended for guidance on protective measures for your child.
How can rotavirus infections be prevented?
The most effective prevention method is administering the rotavirus vaccine to children. Additionally, teaching good hygiene practices, including regular and thorough handwashing, can reduce the risk of infection.
Is rotavirus infection contagious?
Yes, rotavirus is highly contagious. Its ability to remain active on surfaces emphasizes the importance of sanitizing potential contamination points after a rotavirus diagnosis to minimize transmission.
What sets norovirus apart from rotavirus?
The key distinctions between norovirus and rotavirus lie in the duration of the infection, the demographic typically affected, and potential complications associated with each. Both conditions stem from fecal-oral contamination involving infected stool.
Symptom evaluation alone may not always suffice for a doctor to distinguish between the two viruses, as their symptoms closely resemble each other.
Rotavirus infection symptoms typically persist for three to eight days, whereas norovirus symptoms usually resolve in less than three days. Rotavirus predominantly affects children under five who have not been vaccinated, whereas norovirus is more commonly found in adults. Additionally, a child who has experienced rotavirus may develop immunity against reinfection, while norovirus can repeatedly reinfect individuals throughout their lives.
Given the critical importance of maintaining hydration in young children, there are added risks associated with severe dehydration in children affected by rotavirus.
Can rotavirus infection lead to seizures?
While uncommon compared to other rotavirus symptoms, it is possible for rotavirus to induce seizures. In rare instances, children may undergo brief convulsions as a manifestation of rotavirus encephalopathy, necessitating prompt medical attention.
Does rotavirus infection result in fever?
Yes, rotavirus can, in certain cases, lead to a fever. If you or your children encounter a fever reaching 104 F (40 C) or higher, immediate medical attention is advised.
What is Laso MD?
At Laso MD, you can initiate a conversation with a doctor regarding your symptoms within minutes. We serve as a healthcare platform, offering swift and convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.
Just log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll promptly connect you with a doctor through live chat or video. Visit our “How it works” page for additional details.
Our doctors are equipped to evaluate symptoms and administer necessary treatments, including prescriptions.
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