Child Diarrhoea- Causes, Treatment & Baby Vaccination
Diarrhoea is a common condition characterised by frequent, loose, watery bowel movements. It occurs when there is an increase in the frequency and volume of bowel movements, leading to an excessive loss of water and electrolytes from the body. This condition becomes worse in infants.
In this article, Dr. Promilla Butani discusses the diarrhoeal cause, symptoms, treatment and immunity booster for babies. So learn about infant immunisation and the role of a baby vaccination clinic in South Delhi
Cause of Baby Diarrhoea
Baby diarrhoea can be caused by various factors, such as food allergies or intolerances and other underlying health conditions. But, viral or bacterial infections caused by Rotavirus are the most common reason for diarrhoeal disease in toddlers.
Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a common virus that causes severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever in young children, particularly those under the age of 5. It is highly contagious and spreads quickly through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects or through close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of Diarrhoea in Infant
Rotavirus infects the cells lining the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the gut lining. This results in the loss of fluids and electrolytes, leading to dehydration, particularly in young children. Some standard alarms for parents about their baby's conditions are underneath:-
⚫ Fever
⚫ Vomiting
⚫ Dry mouth
⚫ Sunken eye
⚫ Sunken Fontanelle
⚫ Loose motions
⚫ Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhoea creates nutritional deficiency; hence the baby starts losing weight. Weakness makes the baby sleepy, angered and irritable; Diarrhoeal condition also impacts the toddler's overall growth. Therefore, Pediatrician Doctors in Delhi prescribe keeping the kid hydrated.
Treatment of Baby Diarrhoea
Toddlers and young children are vulnerable; hence, parents must take good care of them. But immediate consultation with the best paediatrician becomes essential whenever they experience their kids' abdominal discomfort or any sign of the symptoms mentioned above. A general pediatrician in Delhi carefully examines the kid's discomfort, diagnoses the exact cause and disease, and prescribes the treatment.
Treatment for baby diarrhoea typically involves rehydration with fluids and electrolytes, such as oral rehydration solutions. Infants may also need to avoid certain foods and drinks until their digestive system recovers. In severe cases, medical attention may be necessary to prevent complications and address any underlying causes of the diarrhoea.
Baby vaccination for diarrhoea
Viral infections in babies are common, and rotavirus can create potentially lifethreatening complications. But thankfully, there is a safe and effective vaccine available to prevent rotavirus infection in infants. The vaccine is usually given orally in two or three doses and is crucial to routine immunisation programs in Delhi.
There are two types of rotavirus vaccines used at the Baby Vaccination Clinic in Delhi -
1. Rotavirus vaccine-1 (Rotarix)
2. Rotavirus vaccine-2 (RotaTeq
Rotarix is a two-dose vaccine given orally to infants at 6 and 10 weeks of age. It contains a live attenuated strain of the virus and protects against the most common rotavirus strains.
On the other hand, RotaTeq is a three-dose vaccine given orally at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age. It contains a combination of five live attenuated strains of the virus and offers broader protection against different rotavirus strains.
Both vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe rotavirus disease and are recommended by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that target the virus, thereby preventing infection and reducing the severity of symptoms if the illness does occur.
Benefits of Rotavirus baby Vaccination
Rotavirus vaccination has proven to be highly effective in preventing severe cases of illness. The benefits of rotavirus vaccination include:-
⚫ A significant reduction in the incidence of severe diarrhoea and hospitalisation due to rotavirus infection.
⚫ Vaccination can reduce the burden on healthcare systems and decrease the costs associated with treating severe rotavirus infections.
⚫ Vaccinated children are less likely to spread the virus to others, which can help protect vulnerable populations who may not be able to receive the vaccine.
⚫ Rotavirus vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect young children from a potentially serious illness.
Side-effects of Rotavirus vaccination
Rotavirus vaccination is generally safe and well-tolerated by infants and young children. However, like all vaccines, there may be some potential side effects. The most common side effects of rotavirus vaccination are mild, including diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever. These side effects typically resolve on their own within a few days and do not require any specific treatment. In rare cases, more severe side effects, such as intussusception (a type of bowel obstruction), may occur. However, the risk of these severe side effects is extremely low, and the benefits of vaccination in preventing severe rotavirus infections far outweigh the risks. Parents should discuss any concerns about the side effects of rotavirus vaccination with their child's pediatrician in South Delhi
An Ideal baby for Rotavirus Baby Vaccine
The rotavirus vaccine is recommended for all infants and young children, starting at six weeks of age. The vaccine is most effective when given before the age of six months. Ideally, the vaccine should be delivered in two or three doses, depending on the type of vaccine used. The first dose should be given at six weeks of age, with subsequent doses given at four to six-week intervals. The vaccine is safe and welltolerated by most infants and young children, and the benefits of vaccination in preventing severe rotavirus infections are significant.
Cost of Rotavirus Baby vaccine
The cost of the rotavirus vaccine for babies in Delhi may vary depending on the hospital or clinic where it is administered. Typically, two or three doses of the vaccine are required to complete the series, depending on the type of vaccine used. It is recommended that parents discuss the cost of the rotavirus vaccine with their child's paediatrician to determine the most affordable and appropriate option for their family.
Conclusion
Babies are vulnerable; hence immunisation is necessary for their physical and mental growth. The Rotavirus vaccine plays a crucial role against viral infection. Hence, it is advisable for parents not to skip the doses. Book an appointment with Dr. Promilla Butani- the best pediatrician doctor in Delhi, for hassle-free baby vaccination.