Clinical Characteristics of Rotavirus Diarrhea in Hospitalized Children Under 5 Years: A One-Year Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea in children under five years, resulting in high morbidity and hospitalizations. This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of rotavirus diarrhea among hospitalized children under five years in a one-year cross-sectional analysis. We reviewed 300 hospitalized children aged 0-5 years diagnosed with rotavirus diarrhea. The study found that rotavirus infection primarily affects children under two years, with dehydration being the most common complication. Fever and vomiting were frequent symptoms. Laboratory tests confirmed rotavirus in 80% of the cases, with the highest incidence during the winter months. The study emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, hydration, and the availability of vaccines to reduce the burden of rotavirus diarrhea in children.

Keywords: Rotavirus, diarrhea, children, hospitalization, dehydration, vaccination.