The disease is more prevalent among children in lower socioeconomic classes. Rotavirus affects males and females equally. Adults usually have a few days of nausea, anorexia, and cramping pain. Diarrhea is a less significant symptom in adults than in children. Young children, particularly those in group day care settings, are at increased risk for acquiring this infection.
Newborn infants seem more resistant to disease than their slightly older peers.
They may shed the virus without being symptomatic. Often, a history of exposure to other children with diarrhea is reported. The physical examination is often unremarkable except for signs of dehydration. The most common finding is hyperactive bowel sounds. Rectal examination may stimulate the production of watery, heme-negative stools.