Bug that causes 'fatal diarrhea' rocks US state as bacteria found in water
the-sun.com • • health
Key Points:
- Rotavirus, a highly infectious virus causing severe diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and stomach pain, has been detected in municipal wastewater across Northern California, including cities like Davis, Marin, and San Jose.
- The virus is deadlier than norovirus and is particularly dangerous for children under five, often leading to hospitalization due to dehydration.
- Rotavirus spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces or food, especially in childcare settings, and has been found in 90 highly concentrated sites across the US, with 20 in the Bay Area.
- Vaccination is effective in preventing severe rotavirus infection, with about 75% of US children already vaccinated; the CDC now recommends parents make a shared clinical decision with physicians regarding vaccination.
- Most infected individuals recover within three to eight days with rest and fluids, but severe cases, especially in young children, may require hospitalization and intravenous treatment.
