ROTAVIRUS VACCINE (ROTATEQ)

Rotavirus is a virus that causes severe diarrhea, often with vomiting and fever, mostly in babies and young children.  It occurs mainly between November and May.  It can cause severe dehydration, leading to hospitalization and occasionally death.  It is very contagious and although good handwashing and hygiene may help to prevent spread of the disease, it has not been effective enough. 

There is now a vaccine which can protect children from rotavirus disease.  It is given orally, not by injection.  The vaccine is only given to babies and the series should be completed by 32 weeks of age.  It is a series of 3 doses, at 2 months, 4 months and 6 months of age.

There are no significant side effects to the vaccine.  Children are slightly (1-3%) more likely to have mild, temporary diarrhea or vomiting within 7 days of getting the rotavirus vaccine than children who have not gotten the vaccine.

If your child or a household member is immunocompromised, your child may not be able to receive this vaccine as it is a live vaccine.



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