Rotavirus: 5 signs that your child might need medical assistance

South Africa’s rotavirus season continues, and parents and caregivers are urged to watch children closely for severe signs of dehydration as health authorities report a drastic increase in cases in Pretoria.

Rotavirus is a contagious disease that causes severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever in infants and young children.

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Warning to parents and caregivers

According to IOL, the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NCID) shared that the 2026 rotavirus season is ongoing across the country.

The disease is very common in children, with symptoms that include mild abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, and tiredness. However, though a common infection and many children do recover, the severe loss of fluids can cause life-threatening dehydration if not properly monitored, recognised, and treated quickly.

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5 Signs your child may need medical assistance

The NICD shared five warning signs of severe dehydration parents should look out for:

1. No tears when crying: A child who is crying with few to no tears shows they have lost a lot of fluid.
2. Dry mouth or sunken eyes: A dry mouth and sunken eyes are usual signs of dehydration.
3. Fewer wet nappies: The NICD warned that a child with no wet nappy for six to eight hours may be dehydrated.
4. Unusual sleepiness and limpness: An unusually sleepy baby and excessive tiredness and limp needs urgent care.
5. Refusing to drink or eat: A child who doesn’t have an appetite is at greater risk of dehydration and needs to be assessed by a health care professional.

The NICD classifies severe dehydration as a medical emergency. Dark urine, fast breathing, cold or discoloured skin, and a rapid heartbeat are other serious signs of dehydration.

Parents are urged to take children showing any of these signs to the nearest clinic, doctor, or emergency room as soon as the signs are acknowledged.

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