This article will go over what parents need to know about the rotavirus vaccine for babies, including the rotavirus vaccine schedule, available vaccines, side effects, and more.
How Serious Is the Rotavirus Infection in Children?
Rotavirus often spreads among babies and young children. Nearly all children are infected with rotavirus at least once before they turn five. Because rotavirus is transmitted through fecal matter (poop), it’s especially common to spread in daycares and other childcare facilities. Rotavirus infections are particularly common in winter and spring when people are indoors more often.
Rotavirus is highly contagious, but most cases are mild. However, rotavirus can sometimes lead to life-threatening dehydration (loss of fluids). This is especially true in infants under 12 months old, for whom severe dehydration can be fatal. Some infants with rotavirus may need to receive intravenous (IV) fluids to treat dehydration. In very rare cases, babies with rotavirus may experience convulsions or go into shock. Rotavirus-related deaths are usually due to dehydration.
Incubation Period
The rotavirus incubation period is relatively short, just two days or less. After symptoms begin, they usually stop within about a week.
Rotavirus Vaccine Schedule
The CDC recommends that babies get two or three doses of the rotavirus vaccine, starting at 2 months old. Typically, the first dose is administered before an infant turns 15 weeks old. The final dose is given before the baby is 8 months old.
If your baby missed their first dose of the rotavirus vaccine, don’t worry. They can receive the next dose(s) on the CDC-recommended immunization schedule. However, the vaccine shouldn’t be given after eight months.
Available Vaccines
There are two rotavirus vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States:
RotaTeq (RV5): Given in a three-dose series at 2, 4, and 6 monthsRotarix (RV1): Given in two doses at 2 and 4 months
The FDA approved the above vaccines in 2006 and 2008, respectively. Both rotavirus vaccines are safe and effective in large-scale studies. They are both live-attenuated vaccines, which prompt the body’s immune response with a weakened version of the virus.
(Oral) Route of Administration
Both rotavirus vaccines—RotaTeq and Rotarix—are given orally. This means that they aren’t given as an injection (shot). Instead, the rotavirus vaccine is administered by putting drops in a baby’s mouth.
Because the rotavirus vaccine is given by mouth, there is a small chance that someone could get rotavirus from contacting a baby’s stool (such as when changing their diaper) shortly after they are vaccinated. This usually isn’t a problem, but it may be a concern if you or someone else in your household is immunocompromised. Make sure you clean your hands very well after each diaper change one to two weeks after your baby’s vaccination.
Side Effects
Common side effects of the rotavirus vaccine include:
The CDC immediately stopped recommending the vaccine, and it has not been on the market anywhere in the United States since 1999.
Fussiness Crying Vomiting Mild diarrhea Irritability
Usually, these side effects are mild and go away on their own.
In extremely rare cases, babies who get the rotavirus vaccine may have a higher risk of intussusception – a type of bowel blockage that requires hospitalization and surgery. This may happen about a week after the first or second dose of the vaccine. Seek medical help if your baby:
Is showing signs of abdominal pain, such as pulling their legs up to their chestCries more frequently than usualVomits frequentlyHas blood in their stoolShows signs of weakness or lethargy
Some studies have not found that the rotavirus vaccine increases the risk of intussusception. Intussusception may also happen in unvaccinated infants.
Tell your healthcare provider before your child receives the rotavirus vaccine if they:
Had an allergic reaction to a prior dose of the vaccineAre immunocompromisedHave had a bowel blockage in the past
Costs and Insurance Coverage
Almost all health insurance plans cover the cost of CDC-recommended childhood vaccines, including the rotavirus vaccine. Contact your insurance provider to discuss coverage if you are worried about the potential cost.
Swelling, especially in the face or throatHivesDifficulty breathingWeaknessRapid heart rate
If you aren’t insured, your child’s rotavirus vaccine may be covered through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Reach out to your local health agency with any questions about free and low-cost vaccines near you.
Summary
The rotavirus vaccine offers effective, safe protection against rotavirus and related complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that infants get a 2-3 dose series of the rotavirus vaccine, typically beginning at 2 months of age. Both of the rotavirus vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – RotaTeq and Rotarix– are delivered orally (through drops).
Side effects of the rotavirus vaccine typically include fussiness, mild diarrhea, and vomiting. In very rare cases, a type of intestinal blockage known as intussusception may occur. Parents should seek medical help immediately if they notice any signs of stomach pain or discomfort in their baby about a week after receiving the first or second dose of the vaccine.
A Word from Verywell
The rotavirus vaccine provides safe, effective protection for your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about vaccinating your child against rotavirus.
