Question
The infant has developed diarrhea and has been diagnosed with rotavirus infection through hospital stool tests. Routine blood tests show no abnormalities, but there is also bronchitis. Treatment with intravenous fluids was initiated yesterday, but multiple episodes of diarrhea have continued today. How should it be handled?
Answer
Rotavirus enteritis is an acute gastrointestinal infection caused by rotavirus. This virus primarily spreads through the digestive tract and is more common in infants. The disease peak occurs during autumn, which is why infants often exhibit symptoms of autumn diarrhea. It typically presents with upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and fever, followed by diarrhea, with stools appearing like egg whites or water. Generally, the number of bowel movements per day ranges from 7 to 8, but can exceed 20 in severe cases. It is recommended to continue intravenous fluid therapy, which usually lasts no more than 7 days, with the first 3 days being the most severe.