What is it?

Rotaviruses are the commonest cause of gastro-enteritis in young children. In most cases in Britain, the illness is mild and lasts a few days. Rotavirus infection is commonest in the winter months.

How do I know if someone has it?

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting

Is it Infectious?

Yes. It is spread directly from person to person, or on the hands of people caring for young children.

What is the incubation period?

Symptoms usually begin 1 - 3 days after infection.

What should I do if someone has the illness?

Most people will get better no treatment. For some infections antibiotics may even increase the length of the illness. One or two of the most common bugs may require some specific treatment. At first, the infected person should drink plenty of clear fluids and try not to eat. Water, non fizzy fruit drinks or tea without milk is good. The symptoms will usually clear up within 24 hours. If the symptoms last for more than 24 hours, or there is blood in the diarrhoea, the person should contact their GP.

How can spread be avoided?

Personal hygiene should be very strict. Everyone should wash their hands with warm, soapy water after going to the toilet and before handling food. The toilet should be kept clean, including the seat and handle.

How soon can someone return to school/work?

People should stay away from school or work until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours. Those who handle food as part of their work should check with their employers and GP before returning.

For further information the following website may be of interest:

Food Standards Agency

Date Published: 28/03/08