Disease Carriers
Viruses: Rotavirus
Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common clinical disease in developed countries (second only to upper respiratory illness0; rotaviruses are the major cause of viral gastroenteritis in infants and young adults.
Transmission is from human to human, primarily via the fecal-oral route, with possible respiratory involvement. Infection results in vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and occasionally, abdominal pain. The major loss of fluids and electrolytes can lead to severe dehydration and even death. Infections are common in families, hospitals and other institutional settings. There is no specific treatment available, but fluids are given to combat dehydration.
Two transmission electron micrographs illustrating the
appearance of negatively stained rotavirus as seen in a
stool sample.