Clinical recommendation	Evidence rating	References
Oral rehydration therapy is recommended for children with mild to moderate dehydration from acute gastroenteritis. It is as effective as intravenous rehydration in preventing hospitalizations and return emergency department visits.	B	25, 26, 28
Children with mild dehydration should receive half-strength apple juice followed by preferred fluids (regular juices, milk). This approach reduces the need for eventual intravenous rehydration compared with a formal oral rehydration solution.	B	27
Handwashing with soap is an effective method for preventing episodes of gastroenteritis. Handwashing and hygiene alone, however, do not prevent rotavirus infection.	A	37, 38, 41
All children should receive an oral live, attenuated rotavirus vaccine to reduce the incidence of hospitalization, severe gastroenteritis, and death from rotavirus infection.	A	43, 44
Breastfeeding reduces the incidence of acute gastroenteritis and hospitalization from diarrheal disease in young children.	B	46, 47