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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

There's no specific treatment for a rotavirus infection. Antibiotics won't help a viral infection. Usually, the infection resolves itself within three to eight days. Preventing dehydration is the biggest concern.

To prevent dehydration while the virus runs it course, drink plenty of fluids. If your child has severe diarrhea, offer an oral rehydration fluid such as Pedialyte — especially if the diarrhea lasts longer than a few days. For children, a rehydration fluid can replace lost minerals more effectively than can water or other liquids. Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids in the hospital.

DS00783

Aug. 26, 2008

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