Rotavirus Surge Hits US with 7.3% Positivity Rate

A highly contagious rotavirus infection is surging across the United States this spring, with positivity rates in tests reaching 7.3 percent nationwide as of early April, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus, which primarily strikes infants and young children, has prompted warnings from health experts about rising cases that began earlier than usual and could lead to increased hospitalizations due to severe dehydration.

Rotavirus causes acute gastroenteritis, resulting in symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever and abdominal pain. These can escalate quickly in young patients, leading to electrolyte imbalances, seizures in severe instances and potentially life-threatening complications. The infection spreads through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated hands, surfaces or objects like toys, making outbreaks common in settings such as day cares and schools. While anyone can contract it, infants under 8 months and those with weakened immune systems face the highest risks. Older adults in nursing homes have also experienced clusters, though less frequently.

This year's increase marks a deviation from typical patterns....