What is Rotavirus diarrhoea?

· Rotavirus is responsible for the more severe forms of diarrhoea, especially in infants and very young children. Almost one-third to half of all diarrhea hospitalizations in India, is caused by the rotavirus.

· Diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever can cause a loss of body fluids. This leads to dehydration, which can be very dangerous, especially for small babies, and young children.

· The disease spreads by the feco-oral route, putting contaminated fingers in mouth, by touching contaminated surfaces.

· Good hygiene like handwashing and cleanliness are important, but may not control the spread of the disease.

· Vaccination is the best tool for its prevention.

Which are the rotavirus vaccines available in India and what are the schedules?

· 4 brands of rotavirus vaccines are available in India.

· All the brands are administered in a 3-dose schedule at 6-10-14 weeks except 1 brand which is administered in 2 doses by mouth at 6-10 weeks (the 2 doses are given at least 4 weeks apart)

· The first dose must be administered before 15 weeks of age and the last dose must be administered by 8 months of age.

· Breast feeding can be given before and after rotavirus vaccination

Are the vaccines safe?

Yes. Mild, short lasting diarrhea or vomiting can happen after rotavirus vaccine. Very, very rarely, the rotavirus vaccine may cause a type of bowel blockage, known as Intussusception. This may present as excessive, incessant crying and blood in stools. If your child develops any such problems after the vaccination, please contact your doctor immediately. The risk of intussusception is extremely low in Indian studies.

Who should receive this vaccine?

All infants should receive this vaccine.

Who should not receive the Rotavirus vaccines?

· Any infant who has had an allergic reaction after a previous dose of rotavirus vaccine, or has any severe, life threatening allergies to any vaccine component

· Any infant with a weakened immune system, including a condition known as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), should not receive the vaccine

· Any infant with a previous episode of intussusception, should not receive the vaccine.