Rotavirus.
The consequences of rotavirus infection cannot be over-estimated. It kills millions of children and accounts for occasional illness in adults. The agent is a complex reovirus with a unique capsid that invades columnar epithelial cells disrupting ion transport and producing dehydration. There is no specific therapy, making the need for prevention paramount. Cases must be identified and enterically isolated with some authorities even encouraging respiratory isolation.
Sinnott
J T
JT
Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa.
Cancio
M R
MR
D002675:Child, Preschool; D005759:Gastroenteritis / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D012400:Rotavirus Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy