Infantile viral gastroenteritis is mainly caused by viral infections, with common pathogens including rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus. Treatment primarily involves fluid replacement, dietary adjustments, and symptomatic medication. Rotavirus is the most common pathogen causing viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children. Norovirus and adenovirus can also cause similar symptoms. The viruses are transmitted via the fecal-oral route, causing damage to the intestinal mucosa after infection, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
1. Viral infection is the main cause of viral gastroenteritis in infants. Rotavirus infection is more common in autumn and winter, norovirus infection can occur year-round, and adenovirus infection is associated with respiratory symptoms. Viruses are transmitted through contaminated food, water, or contact. Infants and young children, whose immune systems are not yet fully developed, are easily infected.
2. Environmental factors also influence the occurrence of viral gastroenteritis. Poor hygiene and densely populated areas easily lead to virus transmission. If there is an infected person in the family, infants and young children are easily infected after contact. Maintaining good hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing and disinfecting toys, can effectively reduce the risk of infection.
3. Physiological factors make infants and young children more susceptible to illness. Infants and young children have a weaker intestinal mucosal barrier and an underdeveloped digestive system, making them more vulnerable to viral invasion and inflammatory responses. Breastfeeding can enhance an infant's immunity and reduce the chance of infection.
4. Treatment for viral gastroenteritis primarily involves fluid replacement and dietary adjustments. Oral rehydration salts are the first-line treatment for preventing and treating dehydration; severe dehydration requires intravenous rehydration. Breastfeeding can continue, and formula-fed infants can temporarily switch to lactose-free formula. Complementary foods should be easily digestible, such as rice water and apple puree.
5. Symptomatic treatment with medication can relieve symptoms. Montmorillonite powder can absorb intestinal toxins and protect the intestinal mucosa; probiotic preparations help restore the balance of intestinal flora; antipyretics such as acetaminophen can be used to control fever. Avoid using antidiarrheal drugs, as they may delay viral shedding.
6. Preventive measures include vaccination and enhanced hygiene management. Rotavirus vaccine is effective in preventing rotavirus infection; it is recommended that infants and young children be vaccinated on schedule. Families and childcare facilities should strengthen hygiene management, conduct regular disinfection, and educate children to develop good hygiene habits.
Although viral gastroenteritis is common in infants, most children can recover smoothly with timely treatment and effective prevention. Parents should closely monitor changes in their child's condition; if symptoms such as persistent high fever, severe dehydration, or lethargy occur, they should seek medical attention immediately.