Rotavirus cases spike in New Jersey and Northeast U.S. wastewater data

2 articles · Updated · WHYY · Apr 29

WastewaterSCAN data shows increased rotavirus concentrations in Monmouth and Somerset counties from January to April, with national spikes noted, especially in the Northeast.
Experts attribute the rise to reduced childhood immunizations, seasonal trends, and weakened immune systems, warning that infants and young children are most at risk for severe dehydration.
The CDC highlights vaccination as the most effective prevention, though neither vaccination nor prior infection guarantees complete immunity; proper handwashing is also essential, as hand sanitizer is ineffective against rotavirus.

Is our modern obsession with cleanliness weakening our children's immune systems?

Hand sanitizer is useless against this bug. What other mistakes are parents making?

With vaccine guidelines shifting, what does this mean for your child's health?

Our sewers are now disease dashboards. What other health secrets could they reveal?

Experts project 200,000 hospitalizations. How can this preventable surge be stopped?