Background and aims Acute rotavirus infection constitutes a serious health issue both nationally and worldwide, accounting for numerous cases in children, especially under the age of 5. Presently, due to the polymorphic clinical presentation of acute rotavirus infection in children, many authors have described the concept of rotaviral disease.

Objective In this study we propose to analyse cases of acute rotavirus infection in children with the aim of identifying extra-intestinal manifestations.

Material and method We conducted a retrospective study on cases of acute rotavirus infection in children who were hospitalised in the Paediatric Department of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases ’Prof. Dr. Matei Bals’ during 2013–2016. In these cases we have analysed the following parameters: age, sex, and background. We have also analysed the clinical forms of the disease and the extra-intestinal manifestations of the rotavirus infection. The diagnosis was established through rapid antigen testing from stool samples and PCR from urine, nasopharyngeal swabs, and CSF.

Results In the aforementioned period, we have registered 1028 cases of acute rotavirus infection in children. No deaths were registered and all cases had a favourable evolution. Most affected were male patients, those who belonged to the 1–4 years age group and children from urban areas. 10.4% of all cases had extra-intestinal manifestations. Respiratory, hepatic, cutaneous and neurological manifestations were the most encountered. The most severe extra-intestinal complications were neurological, accompanied by sequelae (seizures, retard, hypotonia).

Conclusions Acute rotavirus infection is a frequent among preschool children and can take severe disease clinical forms with extra-intestinal manifestations. The neurological complications are the most severe complications of the paediatric rotavirus infection.