Kiribati has a confirmed rotavirus outbreak, with 16 laboratory-confirmed cases reported as of February 23, 2026.

This outbreak was first identified after the detection of two positive cases reported by the laboratory on February 20, 2026.

Of the confirmed cases, four children required admission to a pediatric ward. The most affected age group is children under 5 years of age, with cases ranging from 5 months to 53 years overall.

Cases have been reported primarily from South Tarawa and Betio, including Bangla-Eaba, Bikenibeu, Eita, Temaik and Betio. Public health response efforts are ongoing and include case investigation and contact tracing, community awareness efforts led by the Health Promotion Unit, and continued laboratory confirmation of suspected cases.

Rotavirus is the most common cause of severe diarrheal illness in infants and young children worldwide. It is transmitted directly from person to person through the mouth and feces, or indirectly through contaminated objects. Infected people experience a sudden onset of fever and vomiting followed by explosive watery diarrhea. Diarrhea caused by rotavirus can occur in large quantities, often leading to dehydration and, in severe cases, requiring hospitalization. The cornerstone of treatment for severe rotavirus diarrhea is hydration and zinc supplementation.

Vaccines against rotavirus are available, and vaccination is an important tool to reduce rotavirus-associated severe diarrhea and mortality.