- More Rotavirus cases in the North
The number of rotavirus cases in Schleswig-Holstein has increased again. According to AOK NordWest, citing figures from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), a total of 612 cases were reported in 2023, compared to 554 in the previous year. "With the lifting of COVID-19 measures, infections with rotaviruses are becoming more common again," said the CEO of AOK NordWest, Tom Ackermann.
The trend of increasing numbers seems to be continuing, Ackermann said. "Therefore, we strongly recommend that all parents ensure their infants and young children receive the recommended vaccinations and adhere to certain hygiene rules."
Rotavirus symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Rotaviruses are considered one of the most common causes of severe gastrointestinal illness in children. Compared to other diarrheal illnesses, those caused by these viruses can be more severe in infants and young children, according to AOK. As there are no medications for rotaviruses, symptoms can only be relieved. It is particularly important to ensure adequate fluid intake. Since rotaviruses are highly contagious and easily transmitted, adults can also become infected.
The increase in rotavirus cases can be attributed to the lifting of COVID-19 measures. Due to their highly contagious nature, rotaviruses can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in children, notably diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
