Health
Rising Severe Diarrhea Cases Have Experts Urging Caution
Health officials are tracking a notable rise in rotavirus and drug-resistant shigella across the country.
While norovirus remains the primary cause of stomach issues, these specific pathogens are becoming increasingly concerning due to their severity and lack of effective treatments.
Rotavirus primarily impacts infants and young children, while drug-resistant shigella is seeing higher prevalence among adult men.
Experts note that shigella often presents with fever and abdominal pain, whereas rotavirus is characterized by intense fluid loss.
Health Points
- Rotavirus cases have reached high levels in many areas, partly due to declining rates of childhood vaccinations since 2018.
- Drug-resistant shigella infections increased by 8.5 percent over the last decade and do not respond to common antibiotic treatments.
- Maintaining hydration with electrolyte-heavy fluids is the most critical step for recovery from any diarrheal illness.
Medical experts emphasize that dehydration is the most dangerous complication for both children and adults.
Warning signs like dry mouth, confusion, or lightheadedness require immediate attention from a healthcare provider.
“Norovirus is still the king of diarrheal illness,” says Dr. Thomas Russo, chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo.
“But there are many others that can make you miserable.”
If symptoms persist for more than seven days or if you have an underlying chronic condition, seek medical evaluation.
Protect your family by staying up to date on recommended vaccinations and monitoring for signs of severe illness.
