Rotavirus gastroenteritis.
All newborns are vaccinated against rotavirus, however like all vaccines, it does not prevent disease but rather prevents severe forms of it. In KZN we see Rotavirus through the winter season and early spring and presents as high fever, vomitting that doesn't respond well to anti-emetics and diarrhea which often leads quite quickly to dehydration. This year we also have the COVID19 virus which behaves similarly in children. If a child with diarrhea becomes lethargic, not wanting to play or cannot tolerate any fluid or food orally due to repeated vomitting, please have the child assessed by a doctor to ensure there is no dehydration or electrolyte imbalance which could be life-threatening.