One fatality as 2026 rotavirus season begins with a spike in Pretoria
Health officials urge parents to watch young children for signs of severe dehydration as seasonal infection cases rise.
South Africa’s 2026 rotavirus season is underway, with a sharp increase in cases reported in Pretoria and one fatality recorded, according to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), reports Bloemfontein Courant.
Parents are urged to ensure their children are vaccinated against rotavirus and to watch closely for signs of dehydration if they develop diarrhoea or vomiting.
“Rotavirus is a common childhood diarrhoeal infection that has a seasonal pattern, peaking during the cooler, drier months of the year. Most children have at least one infection by two years of age. The virus is transmitted via the faecal-oral route,” NICD explained.
According to Prof. Nicola Page, head of the NICD’s Centre for Enteric Diseases, clinical symptoms include the sudden onset of vomiting followed by non-bloody watery diarrhoea, which may result in severe life-threatening dehydration.
“Fever may occur in approximately 30-50% of patients. Associated symptoms include loss of appetite (anorexia), lethargy, and mild abdominal discomfort.”
Prof. Page added that parents can help prevent dehydration by continuing to breastfeed infants and giving children oral rehydration solution when they have diarrhoeal symptoms.
“Parents should also watch for signs of early to moderate dehydration, including no tears, dry mouth, sunken soft spot or eyes, fewer wet nappies (no wet nappy for previous 6-8 hours), and behaviour changes like unusual fussiness, listlessness and lethargy or refusal to eat or drink. In these children, parents could increase fluid intake or, if concerned, proceed to the nearest clinic or health facility.”
The NICD says South Africa’s rotavirus season typically peaks between July and August and may extend into September. The virus is transmitted through the faecal-oral route. Prompt recognition and treatment of dehydration can help prevent complications, prolonged hospitalisation and death.
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Read original story on www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
