Question
How can a 7-month-old baby get infected with rotavirus?
Answer
Rotavirus primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route, but it can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets. The virus can be transmitted by hands contaminated with the virus, saliva dispersed when a sick child coughs, and contaminated food and water. Babies are infectious from 1-3 days before symptoms appear to the cessation of vomiting, and they no longer pose a risk of infection after symptoms completely resolve. After a baby is infected with rotavirus, they should avoid lactose-containing foods. They can continue with their usual diet, such as congee, noodles, vegetables, minced meat, and fish. One week after symptoms completely resolve, they can gradually resume formula milk feeding, while also paying attention to dietary hygiene and hand hygiene.