What is a common symptom of rotavirus infection?

A common symptom of rotavirus infection is watery diarrhea and vomiting. Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea among infants and young children, and it typically manifests with symptoms that include significant gastrointestinal distress.

Watery diarrhea is particularly characteristic of this viral infection and can lead to dehydration if not managed properly. Vomiting often accompanies this diarrhea, further contributing to the risk of dehydration as the body loses fluids and electrolytes rapidly. These symptoms can occur suddenly and may persist for several days, making it crucial for caregivers to monitor hydration status in affected individuals.

In contrast, while frequent bowel movements can occur, they are more a consequence of the body's response to the infection rather than a specific symptom. Cramps and pain may be experienced but are not as distinctive as the combination of watery diarrhea and vomiting, which is more definitive for rotavirus. Dark urine and jaundice are indicators more commonly associated with liver issues rather than rotavirus infection, thus they do not apply in this context.