Surge in highly contagious rotavirus cases in Bay Area following World Cup kickoff

Rise of Highly Contagious Diarrheal Illness in Bay Area

A contagious diarrheal illness is becoming more prevalent in the Bay Area, as several cities have noted a rise in the virus detected in wastewater over recent weeks.

Rotavirus, known for causing diarrhea and vomiting, typically presents mild symptoms. However, it poses a significant risk for young children, resulting in hospitalization for approximately 50,000 to 70,000 cases annually, and leading to 20 to 60 deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While it’s more frequent in kids, it can affect anyone, with heightened occurrences usually seen during winter and spring.

In the Bay Area, many cities experienced peak levels of rotavirus in wastewater around April and May, but later showed a decline.

Starting mid-June, coinciding with the World Cup’s kickoff on June 11, there has been a resurgence in rotavirus levels in certain areas. Recent data from wastewater treatment facilities in Redwood City, San Jose, and Vallejo indicates elevated virus levels, although not reaching the high levels seen in spring.

“When many people gather, the likelihood of spreading infectious diseases increases,” noted Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at UC San Francisco. “There are three main transmission methods: respiratory, fecal-oral infections like rotavirus, and sexually transmitted infections.”

While it’s unclear if the recent viral levels in wastewater indicate an outbreak among World Cup attendees, Gandhi mentioned that public health experts are understandably concerned about the surge in fans sharing bathrooms and environments.

She highlighted that large venues like Levi’s Stadium and outdoor viewing events may reduce the risk of respiratory disease transmission among fans. Unfortunately, rotavirus spreads through fecal-oral contact, meaning contaminated surfaces or food can lead to infections.

“This makes complete medical sense, and there could potentially be rotavirus present at these gatherings,” she commented about the increase in wastewater levels. “There’s not much that can be done besides promoting good handwashing and food safety practices.”

Health officials in the area are on alert for potential outbreaks. The Santa Clara Public Health Department issued an advisory pre-World Cup, encouraging doctors to watch for signs of infections and inquire if patients attended any matches.

“Increased travel and large gatherings elevate the risk of spreading both endemic and non-endemic diseases,” they stated.

Currently, there is no specific cure for rotavirus, but most individuals recover with adequate rest and hydration. A vaccine exists, particularly recommended for young children as part of routine immunizations. However, the Department of Health and Human Services recently controversially opted to remove this vaccine from the standard schedule. Gandhi pointed out that a decline in vaccinations could contribute to the rising infection rates among adults.