Rotavirus (RV)

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  • WHAT IT PROTECTS AGAINST

    Rotavirus, a highly contagious stomach and intestinal infection

  • WHO IT’S FOR

    Infants

  • WHEN IT’S ROUTINELY GIVEN

    • 2 months

    • 4 months

    • 6 months

  • BENEFITS

    • Protects against: gastrointestinal symptoms caused by Rotavirus:
      • Severe, watery diarrhea
      • Vomiting
      • Fever
      • Loss of appetite
      • Dehydration
    • Prevents emergency room visits and hospital stays
    • Helps stop the virus from spreading to others

  • POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

    • Fussiness or irritability

    • Mild diarrhea

    • Vomiting

    • Gas or temporary stomach discomfort

    • Mild fever

    • Serious side effects like bowel blockage are rare

    Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary. It’s always good to keep in mind that vaccine side effects are minor compared to the more severe health issues that can be caused if you get sick with the disease.

  • VACCINE PRODUCTS (available in the United States)

    • Rotarix (2-dose series)
    • RotaTeq (3-dose series)

  • COMMON QUESTIONS

    Why is the vaccine given orally?

    The vaccine is given by mouth because rotavirus infects the intestines, not the bloodstream or lungs. When given orally, the vaccine helps the immune system build protection directly in the gut – the same part of the body impacted by the actual virus.