What are the benefits of rotavirus vaccine for children. How does rotavirus spread and what are its symptoms. What are the potential side effects of rotavirus vaccination. When should babies receive rotavirus vaccine doses.

Understanding Rotavirus and Its Impact on Children’s Health

Rotavirus is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated. To combat this serious health threat, healthcare professionals recommend rotavirus vaccination for infants.

What is rotavirus and how does it affect children?

Rotavirus is a virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, resulting in gastroenteritis. It is particularly dangerous for young children due to their underdeveloped immune systems and susceptibility to dehydration. The virus can lead to severe symptoms that may require hospitalization in some cases.

Common symptoms of rotavirus infection

• Fever
• Watery diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms typically last for three to eight days, during which children may refuse to eat or drink, exacerbating the risk of dehydration.

How does rotavirus spread?

Rotavirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in various environments, including families, hospitals, and childcare centers. The virus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning that infected individuals shed the virus in their stool, and it can be ingested by others through contaminated surfaces, objects, or food.

Transmission can occur through:

• Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting fingers in the mouth
• Placing unwashed hands contaminated with fecal matter in the mouth
• Consuming contaminated food or water

The virus can survive on surfaces for several days, making it challenging to prevent its spread through hand washing and disinfection alone. This resilience underscores the importance of vaccination as a primary preventive measure.

The Importance of Rotavirus Vaccination for Children

Vaccination against rotavirus is crucial for protecting infants and young children from this potentially severe illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend that children receive rotavirus vaccines according to the recommended schedule.

Why should babies receive the rotavirus vaccine?

Rotavirus vaccination offers several important benefits:

• Protection against a potentially serious disease
• Prevention of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain caused by rotavirus
• Reduction in missed school or childcare days for children and work days for parents
• Decreased risk of hospitalization due to severe dehydration

By receiving the rotavirus vaccine, infants build immunity against the virus, significantly reducing their risk of severe infection and associated complications.

Rotavirus Vaccine Types and Administration

Two types of rotavirus vaccines are currently available for use in children. Both vaccines are administered orally, making them easy to give and well-tolerated by infants.

What are the available rotavirus vaccines?

1. RotaTeq® (RV5): Administered in three doses at ages 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months
2. Rotarix® (RV1): Given in two doses at ages 2 months and 4 months

Both vaccines are equally effective in preventing rotavirus infection and its complications. The choice between the two may depend on factors such as availability, cost, and healthcare provider preference.

How is the rotavirus vaccine administered?

Unlike many other childhood vaccines, rotavirus vaccines are not given as injections. Instead, they are administered orally in the form of drops. This method of delivery is generally well-accepted by infants and helps to build immunity in the gastrointestinal tract, where the virus primarily affects the body.

Safety and Efficacy of Rotavirus Vaccines

Rotavirus vaccines have undergone extensive testing and have been proven to be both safe and effective in preventing rotavirus infections. As with any medical intervention, it’s essential to understand the potential side effects and weigh them against the benefits of vaccination.

Are rotavirus vaccines safe for infants?

Yes, rotavirus vaccines are considered very safe for use in infants. They have been thoroughly studied and monitored since their introduction. While side effects can occur, they are generally mild and resolve on their own without requiring medical intervention.

Common side effects of rotavirus vaccination

The most frequently reported side effects of rotavirus vaccines include:

• Fussiness
• Mild diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Irritability
• Temporary loss of appetite

These side effects are typically short-lived and do not cause lasting harm to the child.

Potential Risks and Rare Side Effects of Rotavirus Vaccination

While rotavirus vaccines are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and rare side effects that have been associated with vaccination.

Intussusception: A rare but serious side effect

Intussusception is a condition where one part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, causing a blockage. Some studies have shown a small increase in the risk of intussusception within a week after the first or second dose of rotavirus vaccine.

The estimated risk of intussusception following rotavirus vaccination ranges from approximately 1 case in every 20,000 infants to 1 case in every 100,000 infants. While this risk is very low, parents should be aware of the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect intussusception in their child.

Symptoms of intussusception to watch for

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bloody stools
• Swelling of the abdomen
• High fever

If any of these symptoms occur, especially within the first week after rotavirus vaccination, parents should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Allergic reactions to rotavirus vaccines

As with any vaccine, there is a very small possibility (approximately 1 in 1 million) of the rotavirus vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. While extremely rare, anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Healthcare providers administering vaccines are trained to recognize and manage allergic reactions. With prompt treatment, children typically recover completely from anaphylactic reactions.

Preparing for Rotavirus Vaccination

To ensure a smooth vaccination experience for both parent and child, it’s helpful to be well-prepared for the vaccine visit.

Steps to prepare for your child’s rotavirus vaccination

1. Research the vaccine and its benefits
2. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider
3. Prepare your child for the visit by explaining what will happen
4. Bring comfort items such as a favorite toy or blanket
5. Plan to stay at the healthcare facility for a short time after vaccination to monitor for any immediate reactions

Comforting your child during vaccination

While rotavirus vaccines are administered orally and are generally well-tolerated, some infants may still experience distress during the visit. Here are some tips to help comfort your child:

• Hold your baby close and maintain physical contact
• Speak in a soothing voice
• Offer a pacifier or bottle if appropriate
• Use distraction techniques such as singing or playing with a toy

Post-Vaccination Care and Monitoring

After receiving the rotavirus vaccine, it’s important to monitor your child for any potential side effects and provide appropriate care.

What to expect after rotavirus vaccination

Most children experience no or only mild side effects following rotavirus vaccination. However, it’s normal for some infants to be slightly fussy or irritable for a short period after receiving the vaccine.

Tips for post-vaccination care

• Continue with your child’s normal feeding schedule
• Provide extra cuddles and comfort if needed
• Monitor for any signs of allergic reaction or unusual symptoms
• Keep track of your child’s vaccination schedule for future doses

If you notice any concerning symptoms or have questions about your child’s reaction to the vaccine, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

The Impact of Rotavirus Vaccination on Public Health

Since the introduction of rotavirus vaccines, there has been a significant reduction in the incidence of severe rotavirus infections and related hospitalizations among children.

How effective are rotavirus vaccines in preventing infection?

Rotavirus vaccines have proven highly effective in preventing severe rotavirus gastroenteritis. Studies have shown that vaccination can prevent approximately:

• 85-98% of severe rotavirus cases
• 74-87% of rotavirus hospitalizations
• 74-87% of emergency department visits due to rotavirus

These impressive figures demonstrate the substantial impact that widespread vaccination has had on reducing the burden of rotavirus disease in children.

Global impact of rotavirus vaccination programs

The implementation of rotavirus vaccination programs around the world has led to significant improvements in child health outcomes. In countries with high vaccination coverage, there have been marked decreases in:

• Rotavirus-related hospitalizations
• Overall diarrheal disease burden
• Childhood mortality associated with diarrheal diseases

Moreover, the benefits of vaccination extend beyond the individual child. By reducing the circulation of the virus in the community, rotavirus vaccines also provide indirect protection to unvaccinated individuals through herd immunity.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions About Rotavirus Vaccination

Despite the clear benefits of rotavirus vaccination, some parents may have concerns or questions about the vaccine. Addressing these concerns is crucial for maintaining high vaccination rates and protecting children from this potentially serious illness.

Is natural immunity better than vaccine-induced immunity?

While natural infection with rotavirus can confer immunity, it comes with significant risks of severe illness and complications. Vaccine-induced immunity provides protection without exposing the child to these risks. Additionally, rotavirus vaccines are designed to mimic the immune response to natural infection, providing robust and long-lasting protection.

Can rotavirus vaccines cause the disease they’re meant to prevent?

No, rotavirus vaccines cannot cause rotavirus disease. The vaccines contain weakened forms of the virus that stimulate the immune system without causing illness. In rare cases, vaccinated children may experience mild, short-lived symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, but these are not the same as a full-blown rotavirus infection.

Are rotavirus vaccines necessary if proper hygiene is maintained?

While good hygiene practices are important in preventing the spread of many diseases, they are not sufficient to prevent rotavirus infection. The virus is highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making it challenging to control through hygiene measures alone. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect children from rotavirus.

The Future of Rotavirus Prevention and Research

As our understanding of rotavirus and vaccine science continues to evolve, researchers are working on improving existing vaccines and developing new strategies for prevention.

Ongoing research in rotavirus vaccination

Current areas of research in rotavirus prevention include:

• Development of next-generation vaccines with broader protection against multiple rotavirus strains
• Exploration of alternative vaccine delivery methods, such as sublingual or intradermal administration
• Investigation of the potential for a single-dose vaccine to improve coverage and reduce logistical challenges
• Studies on the long-term effectiveness of rotavirus vaccines and the need for booster doses

Potential advancements in rotavirus prevention

Future developments in rotavirus prevention may include:

• Improved vaccines with fewer side effects and broader protection
• Novel antiviral treatments for those who develop rotavirus infections
• Enhanced diagnostic tools for rapid and accurate detection of rotavirus
• Strategies to improve vaccine effectiveness in low-income countries where malnutrition and other factors may impact immune response

As research progresses, we can expect to see continued improvements in our ability to prevent and manage rotavirus infections, further reducing the global burden of this disease.

Rotavirus Vaccines for Children | CDC

Español (Spanish)

Print

How to pronounce Rotavirus: [ro-ta-vi-rus]  or Listen

Two or more doses of a rotavirus vaccine are recommended for children by doctors as the best way to protect against rotavirus.

When should my baby get the drops?

Your baby should get either of the two available rotavirus vaccines:

• RotaTeq^® (RV5) is given in three doses at ages 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months
• Rotarix^® (RV1) is given in two doses at ages 2 months, and 4 months

There are two brands of rotavirus vaccine: RotaTeq^® and Rotarix^®. Both brands of the rotavirus vaccines are given by mouth (drops), not by a shot.

Why should my baby get the rotavirus drops?

• Protects your baby from rotavirus, a potentially serious disease.
• Protects your baby from developing diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain caused by rotavirus.
• Keeps your child from missing school or childcare and you from missing work.

The rotavirus vaccine is safe.

The rotavirus vaccine is very safe and effective at preventing rotavirus. Vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects. These are usually mild and go away on their own.

What are the side effects?

Side effects are rare, usually mild, and may include fussiness, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Some studies have shown a small rise in cases of intussusception within a week after the first or second dose of rotavirus vaccine. Intussusception is a type of bowel blockage that is treated in a hospital. Some babies might need surgery. Studies estimate a risk ranging from about 1 intussusception case in every 20,000 infants to 1 intussusception case in every 100,000 infants after vaccination.

Prepare for your child’s vaccine visit and learn about how you can:

• Research vaccines and ready your child before the visit
• Comfort your child during the appointment
• Care for your child after the shot

Before, During, and After Shots

What is rotavirus?

Rotavirus causes severe diarrhea and vomiting. It affects mostly babies and young children. Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to serious dehydration (loss of body fluid). If dehydration is not treated, it can be deadly.

What are the symptoms of rotavirus?

Rotavirus symptoms include:

• Fever
• Watery diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

Diarrhea and vomiting can last for three to eight days. Children may stop eating and drinking while they are sick.

Is rotavirus serious?

Rotavirus can be very harmful. Diarrhea, vomiting, and fever can cause a loss of body fluids. This leads to dehydration, which can be very dangerous, especially for babies and young children. Some children need an IV (needle in their vein) in the hospital to replace lost fluids.

How does rotavirus spread?

Rotavirus commonly spreads in families, hospitals, and childcare centers.

People who are infected with rotavirus shed the virus in their poop. If you get rotavirus particles in your mouth, you can get sick. This can happen if you

• Touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then put your fingers in your mouth
• Put your unwashed hands that are contaminated with poop into your mouth
• Eat contaminated food

Rotavirus can survive on objects for several days. It is very difficult to stop its spread just by hand washing or disinfecting surfaces. The best way to protect young children from rotavirus is to get them vaccinated.

Follow the vaccine schedule

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend children receive all vaccines according to the recommended vaccine schedule.

• Get a list of vaccines that your child may need based on age, health conditions, and other factors.
• Learn the reasons you should follow the vaccine schedule.

Birth – 6 years schedule

Photos of the Disease

WARNING: Some of these photos might be unsuitable for children. Viewing discretion is advised.

Learn More About This Disease

Rotavirus vaccine side effects – NHS

Like all vaccines, the rotavirus vaccine can cause side effects, but they’re usually mild and do not last long.

Common side effects of the rotavirus vaccine

Babies who have the vaccine can sometimes become restless and irritable, and some may develop mild diarrhoea.

Rare side effects of the rotavirus vaccine

Allergic reaction

As with all vaccines, there’s a very small possibility (approximately 1 in 1 million) of the rotavirus vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis after a vaccination is very rare and is a medical emergency. If it does happen, it’s usually quick (within minutes). The people who give vaccinations are trained to deal with anaphylactic reactions. With treatment, children recover completely.

Blocked intestine

Very rarely, (between 1 and 6 in every 100,000 babies vaccinated), the rotavirus vaccine can affect a baby’s intestine (bowel), and they may develop a rare gut disorder called intussusception. This causes a blockage in the intestine.

The symptoms of intussusception are:

• tummy ache
• being sick
• poo that looks like redcurrant jelly in the baby’s nappy

If this happens, contact your doctor immediately.

More about vaccine side effects in babies

Find out more in this leaflet about what to expect after vaccinations on GOV.UK.

What to do if your baby is unwell after the rotavirus vaccine

As with all vaccines, a few babies will have side effects, such as diarrhoea, although they’re usually mild and do not last long. Most babies will not have any problems at all.

Also, bear in mind that diarrhoea and vomiting in babies is common and may be unrelated to the vaccine.

A baby can get rotavirus infection after being vaccinated, but this is uncommon, and the illness is usually milder than it would have been if they had not been vaccinated.

See a GP if your baby is very unwell or the illness is lasting a long time, or if you’re concerned in any way about their health after the vaccination.

How to report a vaccine side effect

The Yellow Card Scheme allows you to report suspected side effects from a vaccine.

It’s run by the medicines safety watchdog the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Help us improve our website

If you’ve finished what you’re doing, please can you answer some questions about your visit today?

Take our survey

Immunizations against rotatec and rotavirus infection for children, Lakhta Junior in St.

Petersburg

Rotaviruses are the collective name of nine types of viruses, vaguely resembling a wheel (the Latin name is derived from “rota” – wheel).

Rotavirus infections are widespread and affect people of all ages. According to modern estimates, up to 95% of children by the age of five have time to get sick at least once. But it is for this age category, i.e. For infants and children under five years of age, rotavirus gastroenteritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach and small intestine) is most dangerous due to its complications, in particular dehydration.

In third world countries where the level of medical care and care for a sick child leaves much to be desired, rotavirus infections are one of the factors of mortality, however, in the most developed countries, these diseases remain a serious threat. It would be unwise and irresponsible on the part of parents to neglect and ignore it – hoping that the child already has immunity to rotaviruses.

The fact is that immunity to one type of rotavirus does not protect against other types and strains. In addition, in this case, immune protection is cumulative: it is not enough to get sick once, although each subsequent infection will proceed the easier, the more such infections were transferred earlier. Accordingly, the first contacts with natural rotavirus cause the most pronounced, and sometimes severe symptoms, which are especially dangerous in early childhood.

This danger is eliminated by timely vaccination.
Thanks to the vaccination, the immune system will be ready to recognize and destroy rotavirus without much difficulty. Even if an infection occurs with a species that was not included in the composition of the vaccine, the infection will pass quickly and in a mild form, or it will not manifest itself with tangible symptoms at all, but the effect of immunity accumulation will still work. It is important to emphasize that modern vaccines are designed to protect against several of the most common types of rotavirus infection simultaneously.

Does your child need a rotavirus vaccine?

• Yes, if you want to protect your child from acute gastroenteritis and they have no contraindications for vaccination. At the same time, the presence of any infectious diseases that occur in a mild form is not a contraindication. The vaccine can be used for immunization, including premature babies born at least 25 weeks of gestation.

Rotavirus vaccines

In our Lakhta Junior clinic in St. Petersburg, you can vaccinate your child with the Rotatec vaccine produced by MERCK SHARP & DOHME Corp. (USA).

This oral vaccine (drops by mouth) contains the five most common strains of rotavirus in a live but significantly attenuated form. The introduction of such viral particles causes a sufficient immune response, but does not lead to the development of clinically significant symptoms.

Even without additional “training”, i.e. without any exposure to natural rotaviruses, immunity lasts for five years, which means sufficient protection for the entire period when infection is most dangerous.

Vaccination schedule

Attention! The vaccination scheme has strict age restrictions!

The vaccination course consists of three doses. The minimum (but not mandatory) interval between doses is one month.

• The first dose should be administered between 6 and 12 weeks of age
• The last dose should be given no later than 32 weeks of age

Therefore, if your child is over 24 weeks old, you will not be able to complete the full vaccination course within the manufacturer’s schedule. Children older than 32 weeks, as well as adolescents and adults, should not be given this vaccine.

Contraindications

The main contraindications to the administration of the Rotatec vaccine are:
• age discrepancy (see above)
• acute inflammatory processes accompanied by high fever (in these cases, vaccination is carried out after recovery or in remission)
• acute a form of diarrhea or vomiting (in these cases, vaccination is carried out in remission)
• immunodeficiency (congenital or acquired), as well as close contact of the vaccinated child with immunodeficient persons. Such contact should be limited at least one week before vaccination
• history of intussusception
• congenital malformations of the gastrointestinal tract predisposing to intussusception
• fructose intolerance, malabsorption of the glucose-galactose complex, sucrase and/or isomaltase deficiency an abnormal reaction to a previous administration of this vaccine

Always tell the doctor if:

• the child is receiving immunosuppressive therapy (for example, organ transplants, autoimmune diseases, etc.) or has cancer
• the child has recently (less than 42 days prior to vaccination) received a transfusion of blood or blood products, including immunoglobulins
• the child has active gastrointestinal disease, including chronic diarrhea
• the child has developmental delay (possible effects not studied )

Vaccine reaction

In most cases, the vaccine is well tolerated.
The most common possible reactions are fever above 38°C (about 20%), diarrhea (about 18%) and vomiting (about 10%).

author

Lakhta Clinic

Multidisciplinary clinic

Vaccination against rotavirus infection (rotavirus) for children in Moscow

We stand for safe, responsible vaccination! All vaccination rules are strictly observed. We have only the best vaccines with minimal risks of side effects. Anti-stress vaccinations: interactive toys, soap bubbles, special Buzzy Ladybug, virtual reality glasses with 3D cartoons!

Make an appointment via WhatsApp

Video

Prices

Doctors

The first children’s clinic of evidence-based medicine in Moscow

No unnecessary examinations and drugs! We will prescribe only what has proven effective and will help your child.

Treatment according to world standards

We treat children with the same quality as in the best medical centers in the world.

Fantasy has the best team of doctors!

Pediatricians and subspecialists Fantasy – highly experienced doctors, members of professional societies. Doctors constantly improve their qualifications, undergo internships abroad.

The ultimate safety of treatment

We have made children’s medicine safe! All our staff work according to the most stringent international standards JCI

We have fun, like visiting best friends

Game room, cheerful animator, gifts after the reception. We try to make friends with the child and do everything to make the little patient feel comfortable with us.

You can make an appointment by calling
or by filling out the form on the website

Other vaccinations

• Imported vaccines in stock!

• Adasel – vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough

• BiVac polio polio vaccine

• Vactrivir Measles, rubella, mumps vaccine

• DPT vaccine Whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus vaccine

• Vaccine Infanrix Whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus

• Vaccine Infanrix Hexa

• MMR II vaccine: measles, rubella, mumps

• Vaccine Pentaxim Poliomyelitis, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination

• Rabies vaccination

• Varilrix – chickenpox vaccine

• Polimilex polio vaccine

• Chickenpox vaccine Varivax

• HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine

• Hepatitis A vaccination

• Hepatitis B vaccination

• Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine

• Measles, rubella and mumps vaccine

• Vaccination against meningococcal infection

• Vaccination against pneumococcal infection

• Ultrix Quadri or Influvac.