Your personal government account (Hebrew)
Rotavirus Vaccine
Vaccine schedule
-
2 months
-
4 months
-
6 months
About the Disease
Rotavirus causes vomiting, severe diarrhea, and fluid ,loss and can lead to dehydration and the need for hospitalization, sometimes even in intensive care. The greatest risk is to infants ages 6 months to 2 years. Without vaccination, almost all children become infected with the virus by age 5.
The Vaccine
The vaccine (RotaTeq) is given in 3 doses. The first dose can be given from 6 weeks of age through 14 weeks and 6 days of age. The last dose can be given up to 8 months of age. The minimum interval between doses must be at least 4 weeks. It is therefore important to get the vaccine on schedule (it can be given together with other vaccines).
| Vaccine Name | Vaccine Composition | How the Vaccine Is Given |
| Rotavirus (RotaTeq) | 5 weakened strains of rotavirus | By mouth as drops |
Impact of the vaccine in Israel: Before the vaccine was added to the routine immunization schedule in 2010, about 4,400 children were hospitalized each year because of the virus. Since vaccination began, the number of hospitalizations due to rotavirus has decreased by about 90%. The vaccine is not effective against other viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Duration of Protection
The vaccine provides protection mainly during infancy, when the risk of severe illness from rotavirus is highest.
Possible Side Effects After Vaccination and How to Relieve Them
Side effects may occur after vaccination. Most are mild and go away on their own within a day or two.
- Fever: A fever-reducing medication and pain reliever can be given.
- Irritability: Try to soothe the baby as much as possible and continue to monitor them.
- Mild, temporary diarrhea: It is important to continue breastfeeding or offer fluids as appropriate for the baby's age and monitor the baby's condition.
- Vomiting: It is recommended to offer small amounts of fluids frequently, as appropriate for the baby's age.
In very rare cases, mainly during the first week after the first or second dose, intussusception may occur. This is a condition in which one part of the intestine slides into another part of the intestine and may cause a blockage.
Important signs to be aware of: abdominal pain and extreme crying, vomiting, blood in the stool, pulling the legs up toward the chest, or weakness. If any of these signs occur, go to the emergency room immediately. It is recommended to obtain a referral to the emergency room through the HMO hotline.
When to Contact Your HMO or a Medical Center After Vaccination
- If your baby seems apathetic.
- If a fever does not go away after 24–48 hours.
- If changes in appetite and eating patterns do not go away after 24–48 hours.
- If seizures occur. They are usually related to a rise in body temperature, but it is important to seek medical attention.
- If you notice anything that causes you concern or worry.
Go to the emergency room immediately if, during the week after the first or second dose, your baby has abdominal pain and extreme crying, vomiting, blood in the stool, pulls their legs up to their chest, or is weak.