Rotavirus is the most common cause of diarrhoea and vomiting (gastroenteritis) in children under five years old. Most of us though, will never have heard of it. As a parent you are certain to come across it as some point, as almost every baby and toddler will catch rotavirus at least once before they reach school age.

Follow the links below to find out more about rotavirus.

• What is it?
  More on the infection >
• Symptoms
  Advice on early signs and symptoms >
• How is it spread?
  Ways in which children catch
  or pass on the virus >
• How common is it?
  How likely it is your baby will catch the virus >
• The impact
  The effect on the family >