Rotavirus

What is rotavirus?

Rotavirus is a common stomach and intestinal illness. It mostly affects babies and young children. It is one of the most common causes of severe diarrhea. Almost all children will have a rotavirus infection by the time they are 5 years old.

Rotavirus is highly contagious. It spreads through direct or indirect contact with an infected person’s feces (poop). It can happen if you touch a contaminated object, food, water, or the hands or mouth of an infected person. The virus enters your body when your unclean hand touches your nose or mouth.

The risk of catching rotavirus is greatest in the winter and spring (December through June). Adults can get the disease, but their symptoms usually aren’t as severe.