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Rotavirus Vaccine Problems

Rotavirus is a gastrointestinal illness that mainly affects babies and young children. It typically causes severe diarrhea, but fever and vomiting are other common signs of rotavirus. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost all American children contract the virus before they turn five. Before the vaccine become available, the virus was responsible for between 55,000 and 70,000 hospitalizations each year. The most common season for rotavirus is between November and May, but is varies slightly from region to region.

  1. Vaccination Schedule

    • The CDC includes the rotavirus vaccine in the normal immunization schedule for all children, and it should be given in the first few months of life. Depending on the brand of vaccine used, the vaccination is given in either two or three doses. The first dose should be given at 2 months, the second at 4 months and the third at 6 months if necessary.

    Oral vaccine

    • Unlike many other vaccines, the rotavirus vaccine is an oral vaccine not a shot. The vaccine consists of a small amount of liquid placed in a baby's mouth by a doctor or nurse, who will then make sure the baby swallows the vaccine.

    Side Effects

    • According to the CDC, the rotavirus vaccine does not appear to pose any serious risks to children who receive it. Some mild side effects may be noticed, however. These include mild diarrhea and vomiting for a short time after receiving the vaccine.

    Severe Reactions

    • Although the rotavirus vaccine does not appear to be associated with any serious problems or side effects, there is always a chance a baby receiving the vaccine may have a serious reaction. Signs of a severe reaction include unusual behavior changes and a high fever. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, wheezing and swelling of the face and mouth. Any severe reactions should be reported to a doctor immediately.

    Warnings

    • Although the rotavirus vaccine is safe for most children, some babies should not receive it. Babies who have had a severe reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine should not receive further doses. Babies with medical conditions that weaken the immune system, such as cancer and HIV or AIDS, should not receive the vaccine without first discussing it with the pediatrician. Additionally, babies who are sick should not receive the vaccine until they are well.

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