Current special Baby City - Valid from 18.12 to 18.01 - Page nb 21

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spread nappies dry limited clean skin hygiene food single hard water watch always

*» BETTER CHILD Rotavirus spreads via the stool of an infected person, entering another child’s mouth through unwashed hands, contaminated food or formula, or poor hygiene. Dr Rothberg explains that “it might sound unpleasant, but it’s very common, especially in overcrowded communities with limited sanitation or access to clean water.” She adds that “because the virus is so hardy, it can survive for long periods on hands, surfaces, and toys.” The effects can be particularly severe in malnourished children or those living in poverty. Even with a vaccine available, rotavirus still causes many diarrhoea cases in South Africa. Dr Rothberg points out that “unfortunately, many children miss their vaccines, and in communities where sanitation is poor and healthcare is stretched, the virus continues to spread.” She notes that “it’s more common in the colder months, and many cases go unrecorded because children aren't always taken to a doctor.” THE DANGERS OF DEHYDRATION Early signs of rotavirus include loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhoea. As Dr Rothberg points out, “these symptoms are hard to miss, but it’s not always rotavirus as there are many causes of tummy bugs.” She adds, “what's important is that parents know when to worry, what signs to watch for, and how to respond.” The real danger, she warns, is dehydration: “it can escalate quickly in infants, especially if they have both vomiting and diarrhoea.” Key signs include: » Skin that doesn't spring back when pinched » Dry mouth and crying without tears » Fewer wet nappies » Sunken eyes » Unusual sleepiness, irritability, or low energy Dehydration can become serious very quickly. Dr Rothberg cautions that “if dehydration becomes too prolonged or severe, it can be life threatening. Blood pressure can drop too low to deliver fluid and oxygen to vital organs, leading to shock and the brain, kidneys, and other systems suffering.” WHEN MEDICAL INTERVENTION IS AND ISN’T REQUIRED... “You don’t need to rush every child with a single vomit or one bout of diarrhoea to the doctor,” says Dr Rothberg. However, the serious situations where you should be concerned include: * Vomiting and diarrhoea at the same time « Refusing to drink « Signs of dehydration, like loose skin, sunken eyes, dry mouth, no tears, less urine, or significant lethargy