Rotavirus is the single most important cause of severe diarrhea and dehydration in infants and young children. Immunization against rotavirus is recommended for all infants in the United States.Two vaccines (Rotateq/RV1, Rotarix/RV5) are available.
Timing and dose — The vaccine is in a liquid form and is given by mouth (not as a shot). The first dose of the vaccine should be given between 6 and 15 weeks of age, but not after 15 weeks. The number of doses (two or three) depends upon which vaccine is given:
Rotavirus vaccine effectiveness — Rotavirus vaccine does not prevent diarrhea or vomiting caused by other bacteria or viruses, but it is very effective in preventing diarrhea caused by rotavirus. The vaccine protects about 98 percent of children from severe diarrhea related to rotavirus and about 74 percent of children from any diarrhea related to rotavirus.
Timing and dose — The vaccine is in a liquid form and is given by mouth (not as a shot). The first dose of the vaccine should be given between 6 and 15 weeks of age, but not after 15 weeks. The number of doses (two or three) depends upon which vaccine is given:
- RotaTeq/RV1 — Three doses of RV1 are recommended, given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. The third dose of the vaccine should be given by 8 months of age.
- Rotarix/RV5 — Two doses of RV5 are recommended, given at 2 and 4 months of age. The second dose should be given by 8 months of age.
Rotavirus vaccine effectiveness — Rotavirus vaccine does not prevent diarrhea or vomiting caused by other bacteria or viruses, but it is very effective in preventing diarrhea caused by rotavirus. The vaccine protects about 98 percent of children from severe diarrhea related to rotavirus and about 74 percent of children from any diarrhea related to rotavirus.
