Loose and watery stools are a common symptom of rotavirus, which may also have a distinct, foul-smelling odor. Rotavirus stool may appear green, yellow, or brown in color.

Rotavirus is a virus that affects the digestive tract. It causes gastroenteritis, an infection of the gastrointestinal tract. It most commonly affects children up to 5 years old, but rotavirus can affect people of any age.

Diarrhea and vomiting are the main symptoms of rotavirus. These symptoms can lead to dehydration, especially in kids. If fluids aren’t replaced or the illness lasts longer than 1 week, dehydration may become a medical emergency.

Although stool doesn’t usually have a pleasant smell, research suggests that rotavirus stools in particular may have a distinct smell.

Learn more about what rotavirus stool smells like, other symptoms of rotavirus to look for, and what to do if you think you or your child has this virus.

Poop doesn’t usually smell good, but stool from rotavirus may have a distinctly foul smell, akin to a slight sulfur or rotten egg smell.

A 1987 study found that rotavirus stools in children had a distinct smell. Many nurses were able to classify the underlying cause of diarrhea based on smell alone, which was more effective than changes in stool color or texture.

Researchers aren’t exactly sure why rotavirus may cause stools to have a distinct, foul-smelling odor. But it may be due to the virus’s effects on the gut microbiome, colon fluid, and levels of acids, fats, and sugars in the stool.

The poop caused by rotavirus is usually very loose and watery diarrhea, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. It may also be green, yellow, or brown in addition to having a foul smell.

Symptoms of rotavirus typically appear within 2 days of contracting the virus and may last up to 8 days. Along with foul-smelling stools, symptoms may include:

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting may lead to dehydration, which may become serious if left untreated.

When to get medical attention

It’s important to get medical attention if you or a child has symptoms of severe dehydration or high fever.

In adults, these can include confusion and dizziness. In everyone, including babies and toddlers, signs and symptoms of severe dehydration may include:

You should also connect with a doctor if you’re vomiting is persistent and doesn’t get better.

Many gastrointestinal conditions may cause foul-smelling diarrhea, including:

Certain dietary changes, such as going on a high fiber diet, may also cause foul-smelling diarrhea.

Most cases of rotavirus can be treated with at-home care. The best thing to do is to stay hydrated and let the virus run its course. This includes drinking lots of fluids.

In many cases, drinking water is OK, but make sure you’re also replacing the electrolytes you lose through vomiting or diarrhea.

Electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or Gatorade (for older children or adults) may be helpful, but consider limiting apple juice, as the sugar in it may worsen diarrhea.

If you or your child gets severely dehydrated, intravenous (IV) fluid rehydration in a hospital may be required. This involves injecting fluids directly into your bloodstream via a vein, usually in the arm.

In some cases, adults can take antidiarrheal medication to help relieve symptoms. But for children, it’s best to speak with a pediatrician to discuss the best method of management, as they may not be able to take medications.

Other important things to do if you think you or your child has rotavirus include:

  • staying home to rest, since rotavirus is very contagious
  • washing your hands often
  • waiting to eat once the vomiting has stopped (usually after the first 24 hours)

Practicing good hand hygiene can help prevent rotavirus from being transmitted from one person to another. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer frequently throughout the day.

It’s especially important to wash your hands after changing diapers, caring for a sick child, and using the bathroom.

Children should also keep their hands out of their mouths as much as possible.

The best way to prevent rotavirus transmission is to make sure children get the rotavirus vaccine, which is part of routine childhood vaccinations.

Yes, people of any age can get rotavirus.

Symptoms of rotavirus are similar to those of other gastrointestinal conditions, so doctors often look at symptoms and treat those rather than testing for rotavirus.

However, doctors will rule out any serious conditions, like appendicitis. They may also test for bacterial causes of symptoms. Bacterial infections can cause more severe illnesses and are sometimes treated with antibiotics.

Watery diarrhea that smells particularly bad is a symptom of rotavirus, although it can also be a sign of other stomach issues.

If you or your child has bad-smelling diarrhea, the most important thing to do is to stay hydrated. Rotavirus doesn’t usually require medical treatment unless severe dehydration develops.