What is rotavirus?
Rotavirus is a virus that spreads easily among children. Signs and symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause severe dehydration, so some children with rotavirus may be hospitalized. You can prevent rotavirus with good cleanliness, handwashing, and staying away from infected individuals. However, getting the rotavirus vaccination is the best way to protect your child.
Rotavirus Vaccine
The CDC recommends that between birth and 12 months of age, an infant should come in for vaccinations up to six times for HepB, DTaP, Hib, PCV, IPV, a yearly influenza vaccine starting around six months, and RV, among others.
RV is the rotavirus vaccination protecting kids against gastroenteritis (severe vomiting and diarrhea). However, it is important to consider the risks and possible side effects. The CDC notes mild problems such as irritability, diarrhea, or vomiting after dosage. A more serious effect is intussusception or bowel blockage.
One FDA study found that “cases of intussusception, a bowel disorder that may require surgery, were in 1.5 of 100,000 recipients of Merck’s RotaTeq vaccine.”
Vaccine Schedules
We at GHT recommend that children receive their vaccines on the CDC schedule. For your next vaccine visit, please make your vaccine-only appointment today!
Do you have any questions or comments? Are you looking for more information to help you decide on rotavirus vaccines? Start the conversation in the comment section below or contact us.
