A highly contagious stomach virus is spreading across the country, with health officials warning that young children — especially infants and toddlers — face the greatest risk of serious illness.
The virus, known as Rotavirus, causes severe vomiting, watery diarrhea and fever that can last for several days. In some cases, children can become dangerously dehydrated and require hospitalization.
According to the CDC, rotavirus cases have been rising since January. In the Northeast — including New Jersey — about 9.6 percent of tests came back positive in mid-April, nearly triple the rate seen in early March.
Health experts say vaccination remains the most effective defense. The CDC estimates the vaccine is up to 98 percent effective at preventing severe illness. But vaccination rates have declined in recent years, with only about 74 percent of U.S. children fully vaccinated by 8 months of age.
There is no specific treatment for rotavirus, and doctors say care focuses on preventing dehydration. Parents are urged to watch for warning signs such as unusual tiredness or fewer wet diapers and to seek medical care if symptoms worsen.
The increase in cases comes as debates over vaccine policy intensify. Earlier this year, federal officials removed the rotavirus vaccine from the routine immunization schedule, prompting concern among pediatricians and a multistate legal challenge joined by New Jersey.