Rotarix
Drug Name: Live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine
Details
Live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine is used to prevent rotavirus infection in children. It is used to prevent infections of the stomach and intestine and is made from both human and animal sources. It is known as Rotarix all over the world.
Purpose:
- Rotavirus infects almost every child and can cause severe illnesses such as diarrhea, severe fever, etc., which can be prevented by the Rotarix
- This vaccine prevents you from further gastro-enteritis diseases.
How does it work?
Live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine is the live attenuated vaccine that contains five strains of rotavirus. When the vaccine is administered the body’s immune system releases the antibodies and develops immunity against the virus.
Dosage:
- The vaccine is given by an experienced doctor in the hospital or clinic.
- Rotarix vaccine is given orally in a series of doses.
- The first dose is administered when the child is six weeks of age and the second dose is given after 4 weeks from the first dose.
- The second dose should be given before the child reaches 24 weeks of age.
- The booster dose may be different for some infants and should be taken as directed by the doctor.
Side effects:
- Live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine may show some serious allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face especially lips, and tongue. If these symptoms occur, get immediate medical help.
Common side effects:
- Diarrhea,
- Sore throat,
- Vomiting
- Fussiness
Serious side effects:
- Severe diarrhea
- Convulsions
- Cough with green mucus
- Painful urination
- High fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
If the above-mentioned side effects occur, call your doctor immediately.
Precautions and warning:
- Rotarix vaccine should not be used if your child gets severe allergic reactions after the first dose.
- This vaccine is contraindicated in the child who is diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID).
- It should not be given to children who have intestinal diseases or congenital stomach disorders.
- It is also contraindicated in the children who are diagnosed with H.I.V, Cancer, and other blood disorders.
- The child who received the vaccine should avoid coming in contact with the person who has weak immunity.
Storage:
- Live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine should be taken within 24 hours of reconstitution.
- It is refrigerated at 2° to 8°C or at room temperature of 25°C.
- Do not freeze the vaccine.
It should be discarded if not used within 24 hours of reconstitution.