Latest news with #Rotavirus
Jordan News
5 days ago
- Health
- Jordan News
How to Deal with Rotavirus? - Jordan News
Rotavirus is a virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhea and vomiting. It primarily affects children, with most children contracting it at least once before the age of five. اضافة اعلان However, adults can also get infected, although symptoms are usually milder or may not appear at all in healthy individuals. The virus spreads easily through contact with objects contaminated with fecal matter, making transmission common in households, daycare centers, and hospitals. Dr. Adel Al-Belbisi, head of the National Center for Epidemic and Communicable Disease Control, clarified the nature of the virus that has recently spread in Jordan—characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, and high fever—confirming it is "rotavirus" and not linked to watermelon or other fruits. Common Symptoms in Adults Symptoms usually begin about two days after exposure. Early signs include mild fever and vomiting, followed by severe watery diarrhea that may last for 3 to 7 days. Other common symptoms include abdominal cramps and loss of appetite. In healthy adults, symptoms may be mild or even absent. However, severe dehydration can occur due to prolonged diarrhea and vomiting. Dehydrated individuals often experience dry mouth, intense thirst, decreased urination, or altered consciousness (such as drowsiness or dizziness upon standing). Elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems (e.g., diabetes patients, those with chronic illnesses, or individuals on immunosuppressive medications) are more at risk of complications. Adults who care for young children are also at higher risk, as kids easily spread the virus within the family. Modes of Transmission Rotavirus is mainly transmitted via the fecal-oral route. Infected individuals shed large amounts of the virus in their stool, starting two days before symptoms appear and continuing for about ten days after recovery. Transmission can occur when contaminated hands, tools, or toys come into contact with the mouth. Common examples include consuming food or drink contaminated with an infected person's feces, or touching doorknobs and toys contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers alone are not sufficient—studies have shown limited effectiveness against rotavirus. The virus can remain infectious on uncleaned surfaces for weeks or even months. Hence, hygiene is the cornerstone of prevention. Diet During Infection Treating dehydration is the top priority when dealing with rotavirus. It is crucial to drink plenty of fluids to replace lost liquids. Water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Pedialyte or homemade sugar-salt solution) are recommended, especially in cases of severe diarrhea or vomiting. Once appetite improves, the patient can gradually return to a normal diet. Initially, it's best to consume bland, easy-to-digest foods such as boiled white rice, cooked vegetables, bananas, applesauce, plain toast, or crackers. Yogurt can help support the digestive system, and lean boiled meats can be reintroduced gradually. Maintaining balanced nutrition while focusing on hydration is essential. Certain foods and drinks should be avoided during infection, as they can worsen diarrhea. These include: Fatty and sugary foods (e.g., sweets, soft drinks, sweetened juices) Fried and heavily spiced foods Caffeine (coffee and strong tea), alcohol, and nicotine—all of which irritate the stomach and intestines Some individuals may temporarily develop lactose intolerance, so milk and dairy products (except yogurt) should be avoided until the gut recovers. General Prevention Measures Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet or changing diapers. Frequent personal hygiene, especially cleaning under fingernails, helps prevent transmission. Surface Disinfection: Clean contaminated surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, toys, kitchen tools) with disinfectants. Diapers and personal hygiene items used by the patient should be cleaned or disposed of separately. Avoid Sharing: Do not share eating utensils, cups, or towels with an infected person. It's best for the sick person and their caregivers to use personal items during the illness. Vaccination: While there's no vaccine for adults, the World Health Organization recommends vaccinating all infants with rotavirus vaccines (e.g., Rotarix or RotaTeq). This reduces community spread and protects vulnerable groups like the elderly. The vaccine is not given to children older than 8 months or to adults. Handling Patients: When caring for a sick child or adult, take precautions when changing diapers or cleaning up. Wash hands thoroughly afterward, and avoid letting the patient prepare food for others until fully recovered. Medical Recommendations for Dealing with Rotavirus There is no specific antiviral treatment for rotavirus. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. Health institutions (CDC, Mayo Clinic) recommend the following: Consult a Doctor When Needed: Adults should see a doctor if symptoms persist for more than two days or if severe signs appear—such as frequent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fever over 39.4°C, or signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, low urine output, extreme drowsiness). Elderly or chronically ill individuals should not delay seeking care. Rehydration: The primary medical recommendation is to drink plenty of fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. Oral rehydration solutions are particularly useful if diarrhea lasts more than a day. Patients should resume a balanced diet as soon as possible once they start feeling better. Avoid Inappropriate Medications: Antibiotics do not help in rotavirus infections, as they target bacteria, not viruses. Anti-diarrheal medications (motility inhibitors) are generally not recommended without medical advice, especially for children or the elderly, since the body needs to eliminate the virus and toxins. Monitoring and Support: In cases of severe dehydration or continuous vomiting, hospitalization and IV fluids may be necessary. It's vital to watch for dehydration signs and act quickly. Doctors recommend rest, hydration, and small, easily digestible meals when tolerated. In summary, rotavirus in adults usually causes mild symptoms, but should be taken seriously, especially in elderly or immunocompromised individuals. Follow medical and official health guidelines: maintain strict personal hygiene, stay hydrated, eat properly, and consult a doctor if warning signs appear.
The Hindu
20-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Campaign to prevent diarrhoea among children under 5 years of age
Puducherry has launched a two-month-long diarrhoea prevention campaign that aims to reach out to an estimated 74,390 children in the 0-5 years age group. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, led the launch of 'Stop Diarrhoea Campaign' formulated on the instructions of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, at a recent function organised at the Government Girls' Middle School, Thilaspet, a government press release stated. The Chief Minister also distributed ORS packets and zinc tablets to the children in the target age group. The programme, scheduled to go on till July 31, aims to achieve zero child deaths due to childhood diarrhoea as part of a nation-wide intensive campaign. Over a two-month-long drive with pre-positioning of two ORS packets and zinc as a co-packaging to children under 5 years of age to broad base access to treatment, the effort would also promote individual and community-level hygienic practices, such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, consumption of safe and purified drinking water and maintaining proper sanitation facilities. The Health Department will also ensure that children receive Rotavirus and Pentavalent vaccinations and Vitamin A syrup as per schedule and encourage exclusive breastfeeding for infants for the first six months before introducing complementary feeding from the seventh month. MLAs V. Aroumougame and S. Ramesh, V. Ravichandran, Health Director, S. Govindarajan, Director, National Health Mission in Puducherry, and Health Deputy Directors V. Anandalakshmi (Family Health and Child Health), Shamimunisa Begum (Public Health) and G. Ragunathan (IEC), Kavitha, school headmistress and health officers participated. The 2025 campaign seeks to improve outreach with respect to the 77,884 children in the under-5 age group who benefited from the programme last year, the press note said.
Hans India
20-06-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Awareness drive held on diarrhea prevention
Kurnool: As part of the district-wide 'Stop Diarrhea Campaign', a comprehensive awareness programme was organised on Thursday at Tarakarama Nagar, under the limits of the Shareen Nagar Urban Primary Health Centre in Kurnool city. The event aimed at educating the public on measures to prevent diarrhea, especially among children under five years of age. District Epidemiology and Medical Officer (DEMO) Srinivasulu Setty participated in the programme and addressed the gathering. He informed that the campaign is being implemented throughout the district from June 16 to July 31 with the objective of reducing child mortality linked to diarrhea diseases. 'Diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of death among children below the age of five,' he said. 'It is critical for parents and caregivers to follow proper hygiene and nutrition practices to safeguard children's health.' During his address, he outlined a list of essential preventive measures such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, use only safe and purified drinking water, ensure children receive Rotavirus and Pentavalent vaccinations on time, administer Vitamin A syrup as per schedule, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, always using proper sanitation facilities, exclusively breastfeeding infants for the first six months, introducing complementary feeding from the seventh month onwards. In case of diarrhea, administering ORS solution and Zinc tablets continuously for 14 days and to seek immediate medical care if warning signs appear in children. Setty noted that these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions caused by diarrhea and urged the community to remain vigilant and proactive. Also present at the event were Deputy DEMO Dr Chandrashekar Reddy, health workers Anuradha, Jayakumar, and ASHA worker Maddamma, along with other staff who engaged with the public to spread awareness.
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Target to reach over 34L children with campaign against diarhhoea
Vijayawada: Health minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav launched the 'Stop diarrhoea' campaign, aiming to address the high incidence of childhood diarrhoea and prevent diarrhoea-related deaths by promoting effective preventive measures, timely treatment, and improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Yadav unveiled the 'Stop Diarrhoea Campaign 2025' poster, which will be implemented from June 16 to July 31, in coordination with the ministry of health & family welfare, govt of India, in the state. The health minister said, the State targets to reach over 34.6 lakh children through door-to-door distribution of ORS packets and zinc tablets by ASHAs and ANMs, setup of ORS-zinc corners at health & wellness centres, AWCs, and village secretariats, water tank cleaning, quality testing, and intensified Rotavirus vaccination. The campaign also includes school-based awareness drives, Anganwadi outreach, and reinforcement of hygiene practices. Yadav emphasised that this mission aligns with the vision of a healthy and happy Andhra Pradesh, integrating efforts across departments including women & child welfare, education, and rural development.
Scroll.in
14-06-2025
- Health
- Scroll.in
Bangladesh's gamble with Islamist extremism
In medicine, certain diseases are called self-limiting. They burn out because they consume their own fuel. The pathogen spreads, triggers the body's defenses and is ultimately purged by the very symptoms it provokes. Rotavirus diarrhoea is a textbook example. The virus replicates by destroying intestinal cells, unleashing a deluge of watery stools. But in that process, the body expels the virus en masse. Dehydration is the main danger, not the infection itself. Treatment is rehydration, patience – and restraint. No antibiotics. Just time. Bangladesh's far-right political movements behave much the same way. They surge, intoxicated by their own fury, only to meet resistance that they themselves provoke. And the country's major political parties – especially the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party – have long learned to treat this political fever with the clinical patience of a field medic: observe, hydrate, wait. The rise of organised Islamist militancy offers a clear case. Though its first modern stirrings emerged under the Awami League with the 1999 bombing of the cultural group Udichi, it metastasised under the Bangladesh Nationalist Party government after 2001 – amid the global post-9/11 shift and under the pretense of countering leftist extremists. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party dismissed early warnings as exaggerations, even fabrications by the media. This misdiagnosis allowed militancy to flourish. Only when it struck the diplomatic core – wounding British High Commissioner Anwar Choudhury – and then spilled over into coordinated bombings across 63 districts, including attacks on the judiciary, did the ruling coalition respond with anything resembling urgency. By then, the state was teetering. And yet, almost predictably, the very violence of the movement ensured its own undoing. What rose in chaos, collapsed in overreach. This cyclical rise and fall of extremism is endemic. Bangladesh's far-right politics is a self-limiting disorder. It thrives on permissiveness, crests in destruction and invites a crackdown by triggering existential alarms. Both major parties know this. They've come to rely on it. Far from developing proactive strategies, their default mode has become reaction, not prevention. But this is a gamble – assuming that each flare-up will burn out before consuming the state entirely. The Rotavirus comparison only goes so far. In politics, dehydration doesn't just kill individuals. It weakens institutions. And Bangladesh, increasingly, is running dry. An exhausting game The Awami League played this cynical waiting game. When secular bloggers were hacked to death one after another in the early 2010s, the government chose optics over action. The murders were dismissed as isolated incidents, convenient provocations to be milked for political leverage. In some cases, officials even implied the victims brought it upon themselves. No serious investigative machinery was mobilised. No systemic preventive architecture was built. Then came the Holey Artisan attack in 2016 – a massacre so brutal, so high-profile, that denial was no longer an option. Foreign engineers, pregnant women, and elite, Western-educated Bangladeshi youth were slaughtered in Dhaka's diplomatic zone. The illusion of control evaporated. The state responded, as it always does, at the brink of collapse. But what followed wasn't just suppression – it was transformation. The Awami League weaponised the crisis, turning public fear into institutionalised repression. They converted the war on extremism into a self-sustaining enterprise – a 'jongi bebsha', or militancy business. Disappearances, secret detentions, and extrajudicial killings became not just tactics, but features of a new authoritarian order. The government aligned itself with the global trend of Muslim-demonising counterterrorism – offering itself as a regional partner to India's Hindu nationalist government and the broader Western security apparatus. A politics of fear became its primary currency of legitimacy. So when extremist mobs take to the streets again – burning homes, attacking minorities, issuing fatwas – the government watches, waits and measures. Because it understands the choreography. Let the violence swell. Let society panic. Then move in as saviour and surgeon. The logic is tragically consistent. Far-right politics in Bangladesh is allowed to mature into crisis – not despite state interest, but because of it. It is profitable, both politically and geopolitically. And once the chaos peaks, it's contained – violently, if necessary – conveniently validating the very system that allowed it to fester. In medical terms, diarrhoea purges the virus. But in politics, the purge takes human form: students, journalists, dissenters, bystanders. The 'symptom' is blood on the street. Now the question is why do Bangladesh's leaders wait until they collapse? Why must every extremist wave reach a boiling point before the state reacts? Why are lives consistently sacrificed before power intervenes? Uncomfortable truths This is because, first, the expendability of life. In Bangladesh's political economy, human lives are collateral. Disposable. The slow violence of poverty, corruption, and infrastructural decay has already devalued public life. A few dead bloggers? A handful of bomb victims? In the calculus of power, these are not crises – they are costs. Second, opportunism. The ruling parties do not see extremism purely as a threat – they see it as a tool. A problem that can be turned into political capital. Whether it's a licence for surveillance, a justification for repression, or a means to discredit the opposition, the chaos is not only tolerated–it is curated. The body politic, unlike the human body, doesn't heal. It mutates. It builds tolerance not to pathogens, but to violence. In Bangladesh, that virus is studied, harvested and sometimes – terrifyingly – incubated. The deeper tragedy is that it often strikes the match. The Awami League has perfected the art of extracting power from chaos. Just as it once allegedly used rolling blackouts to justify lucrative quick-rental energy deals – some of which critics allege were artificially extended for profit–it has used early extremist violence to normalise disappearances, secret prisons, and the quiet burial of dissent. What began as reactive measures soon became proactive performance: staged arrests, dramatised operations, manufactured enemies. A full-blown playbook of crisis capitalism emerged – never let a good crisis go to waste. But the state alone is not to blame. It acts, in part, because we do not. Bangladesh's civil society – its public intellectuals, its media, its so-called conscious class – has become tragically consistent in its silence. We whisper about the violence. We look away from the disappearances. We tut-tut in drawing rooms after a tragedy, but only once it is too late. Our inaction functions as permission. Our apathy sets the stage. And by the time the extremists are on the streets, or the security forces are kicking down doors, or the constitution is being quietly rewritten, it is already too late. The machinery is in motion. Machiavelli, never shy about statecraft's darker corners, wrote of tuberculosis that 'in its early stages it is easy to cure but hard to diagnose; in its later stages, easy to diagnose but hard to cure'. The same holds true for political disease. Early signs are ambiguous: a blogger killed, a speech silenced, a mosque sermon turned ominous. But when the diagnosis becomes clear to all, the cure demands blood. This is the point at which Bangladesh now stands. We can no longer pretend not to recognise the symptoms. We have seen this cycle repeat, from the streets to the state and back again. We know how it ends: with new laws of surveillance, with bodies disappearing into black vans, with an electorate stripped of agency and a regime cloaked in manufactured consent. So the burden now shifts – to us. If we know how this game is played, and if we continue to watch it unfold in silence, then we are no longer just observers. We are accomplices.
