Rotavirus cases rise in Kolkata as 11 children fall ill, 8 hospitalised

A sudden spike in rotavirus infections has triggered concern in Kolkata after 11 children tested positive in the past seven days at a reputed private hospital in South Kolkata. Hospital officials said eight of the affected children required immediate admission due to the severity of symptoms, putting pressure on paediatric services.

According to doctors, the infected children are between one-and-a-half and 12 years old. Many of them were brought in with acute abdominal pain, persistent vomiting and severe diarrhoea. The hospital’s outpatient department has also reported a steady rise in similar complaints since February 10, indicating a broader surge in viral gastroenteritis cases across the city.

The most worrying aspect, doctors said, is that all 11 children had completed their recommended rotavirus vaccination schedule. Paediatric specialists clarified that while the vaccine significantly reduces the severity of the disease and the risk of death, it does not guarantee absolute protection against infection. Vaccinated children may still contract the virus, though symptoms are often milder.

Medical experts suspect that the circulation of a new strain of the virus or waning antibody levels over time could be contributing to the recent infections. Samples from affected children are currently being analysed to detect any change in viral patterns and assess whether strain variation is involved.

Health authorities have urged parents not to panic but to strengthen hygiene practices at home. Since rotavirus spreads rapidly through contaminated food and water, doctors advise giving children boiled or properly filtered water, ensuring strict handwashing before meals and after outdoor activities, and seeking immediate medical care if symptoms such as persistent vomiting or diarrhoea occur. Oral rehydration solution should be administered promptly to prevent dehydration.