The illness usually starts with an occasional bout of loose runny stools which may contain blood, pus, or mucus, and quickly progresses to frequent, watery diarrheal bowel movements that could last from 3 to 8 days. At this time, temporary lactose intolerance may occur. Without treatment , severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration or even death. Vomiting usually accompanies the diarrhea which therefore can attribute to the progression of dehydration. Pain occurs frequently and most often during watery bowel movements or vomiting.
Dehydration is the biggest threat from diarrheal diseases in children.
Once rotavirus has reached the dehydration state, hospitalization is highly recommended. Children must be hospitalized for special fluid therapy and constant doctor attention. Dehydration can be extremely fatal, leading to severe dehydrating syndrome or even death. The primary mode of transmission is fecal-oral, by comming in direct contact with the feces of an infected child and then passing the infection to the mouth. Because the virus is stable in the environment, transmission can occur through ingestion of contaminated surfaces, objects or hands.