Rotavirus vaccine

Rotavirus Vaccine

Rotavirus Vaccine is an oral vaccine against the rotavirus which causes severe diarrhea in young children. The vaccine helps the body develop immunity to rotavirus, thus reducing the severity of a rotavirus infection or preventing it altogether.

Category

Vaccine

Molecular Formula

Not applicable

Mechanism of Action

The vaccine contains live, attenuated (weakened) rotavirus strains that stimulate an immune response without causing the disease. This immune response helps protect against future rotavirus infections.

Evidence Grade

A

Other Names

• RotaTeq
• Rotarix

Primary Benefits

• Prevention of rotavirus infection
• Reduced risk of severe diarrhea in children

Recommended Dosage

Side Effects

• Fever
• Irritability
• Mild, temporary diarrhea or vomiting

Precautions

• History of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of rotavirus vaccine
• Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
• History of intussusception

Interactions

• Immunosuppressive therapies
• Certain other vaccines

Key References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Rotavirus Vaccination. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/rotavirus/index.html