Rotarix Vaccine Information

The vaccine Rotarix^® (rotavirus vaccine) is used for preventing rotavirus, a common but potentially serious childhood infection that causes severe diarrhea and may sometimes result in hospitalization.

 

Rotarix is a live attenuated vaccine. This means that it contains the living virus which has been altered in such a way that it does not actually cause disease. However, the body's immune system still responds to it, providing future protection from the disease. In general, live vaccines provide better protection from infections (compared to other types of vaccines).

 

This vaccine is given as two doses, given at least four weeks apart. This simple dosing schedule is flexible enough to coincide nicely with standard well-baby visits. The second dose should be given before the child turns six months old. Rotarix is one of the few vaccines that are given by mouth (not as an injection).