600,000 Children Die Annually from Rotavirus: Dr Zulfiqar

APP

Hyderabad: Dr Zulfiqar Shaikh, a pediatrician, informed that Rotavirus diarrhea was not well understood in the ancient world, probably because its symptoms are primarily systemic and non-specific, rather than just diarrhea.

Speaking to a state-run news agency on Monday, Dr Zulfiqar emphasized that the lack of clean drinking water and unsanitary conditions for food production and preparation are the main reasons for the ongoing endemic of diarrhea in the developing world.

He noted that treatments for Rotavirus infections are focused on preventing and treating dehydration. These infections lead to the death of over 600,000 children worldwide each year.

Dr Zulfiqar highlighted that poor attention to water, sanitation, and hygiene is a major source of backwardness in the country.

Poor quality and quantity of drinking water, along with unsanitary and unhygienic conditions, cause illnesses in both adults and children.

He mentioned that children aged 5-10 years are traditionally considered at greatest risk, although young children and infants may also be infected.

The medical expert recommended that treatment for Rotavirus should begin based on clinical findings prior to a definitive diagnosis, as facilities for definitive diagnosis may be lacking in endemic regions.

Dr Zulfiqar explained that most parents are not as familiar with the name Rotavirus as they are with other viruses like the cold or flu. However, Rotavirus is a very common cause of infections in children and is the most common cause of severe diarrhea in young children, often responsible for outbreaks in daycares.

Children usually develop symptoms of Rotavirus infections about 1 to 3 days after exposure. Symptoms include vomiting, watery diarrhea (without blood or mucus), fever, and abdominal pain. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure or treatment for the Rotavirus infection itself.

He advised that Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are an exact mixture of water, salts, and sugar, which can be absorbed even when the child is vomiting.

The key is to give small amounts of ORS frequently, gradually increasing the amount until the child can drink normally, and continuing to give ORS until the diarrhea is less frequent.

Dr Zulfiqar noted that the number of patients suffering from viral and bacterial diseases like diarrhea, Rotavirus, malaria, typhoid, and dengue fever has been rising due to different seasons. He emphasized that symptoms like watery diarrhea and vomiting can quickly dehydrate the body, leading to potentially fatal consequences if fluids are not replaced immediately.

He explained that diarrhea germs are easily spread from person to person, especially among children who have not yet learned to use the toilet.

The spread of infection can be reduced if adults and children wash their hands carefully after every diaper change, after using the toilet, and before preparing and eating food.

Dr Zulfiqar advised that if Rotavirus diarrhea or cramping continues for more than 5 to 7 days, parents should contact their doctor. The doctor may suggest other medications or treatments.