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Babies fall sick ever so often! As a parent, when you think it is something serious and panic during that first viral attack, the doctor says it’s normal and nothing to worry about. When you think it is normal vomiting and diarrhea, they scare you it could be Rotavirus! Know everything about the Rotavirus vaccine.
Now, what exactly is Rotavirus? Why do many parents and sometimes even the governments of developing nations panic about this and insist on the vaccine? Read on to find out all about this dreaded disease!
In This Article
- What is Rotavirus?
- Onset of Rotavirus
- What is Rotavirus Vaccine?
- Can the Vaccine be Given to all Babies?
- When to Avoid the Vaccine?
- Importance of Rotavirus Vaccine
- Side Effects of Rotavirus Vaccine
- FAQs
What is Rotavirus?
Rotavirus, as the name suggests, is a virus and not bacteria that affects very young babies. It affects the majority of babies. Not every case is severe. There is no need to hospitalize the baby unless it is severe. The cases range from mild – which can be treated at home, to severe which requires hospitalization for a few days and sometimes can even lead to death. Yes, you read that right! Death! But this is very rare and happens only in a very few cases where the baby is not diagnosed and treated at the right time.
The Onset of Rotavirus
So, what exactly happens when a baby contracts Rotavirus? How do you identify a Rotavirus infection?
The onset of Rotavirus causes a mild fever. An upset stomach that can cause vomiting and diarrhea follows the fever. When the diarrhea is very frequent, watery, green, or brown in color accompanied by a foul smell, it is a warning bell that it can be a severe infection.
Frequent vomiting and severe diarrhea will cause dehydration, which can cause the baby to go into shock or suffer from convulsions.
So, how do you know your baby is dehydrated? Watch out for these signs in your baby:
- Very Thirsty
- Less or No Urination
- The Mouth appears Dry and Feels Sticky
- Dry Skin
- No Tears
- Soft Sunken Spot on the Head of a Baby
- Lethargic
- Cranky /Restless
While the symptoms of Rotavirus infection are common symptoms for any infection in a baby, if they seem to be serious and last for more than a day, one should immediately call the doctor.
What is Rotavirus Vaccine?
The vaccine is in liquid form. The administration is by the mouth. The babies receive it at 2 months, and 4 months and for certain brands, the third dosage at 6 months of age.
Can the Vaccine be Given to all Babies?
Please note the age limit of this vaccine is 8 months. And a baby over 8 months SHOULD NOT be given this vaccine as per general recommendation. Do check with your doctor before you make a decision.
When to Avoid the Vaccine?
If you are asking “when should I avoid my baby’s Rotavirus vaccine”? here is when:
- Severe allergic reaction to the previous dose of the vaccine or any components of this vaccine
- In case of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as Swiss-type agammaglobulinemia, a rare genetic disorder
- A previous episode of intussusception, a medical emergency involving obstruction of the intestine.
- Diseases affecting the immune system like HIV/ AIDS or cancer
- Treatments using steroids
In all the above instances, you must discuss with your doctor and give them a full background of your baby’s health before you give them this vaccine.
Importance of Rotavirus Vaccine
Wonder “why should my baby have the Rotavirus vaccine?” or are there any benefits of the Rotavirus vaccine?
This virus has symptoms similar to most other infections that are common in babies. If left unchecked, the Rotavirus can cause severe dehydration in a baby, which can sometimes be difficult to identify in small babies. Since it is a highly contagious disease, it is advisable to give your baby the Rotavirus vaccine, unless your doctor says otherwise.
Side Effects of Rotavirus Vaccine
If you have given your baby the vaccine, then here are the side effects babies to watch out for:
- Mild/temporary diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Intussusceptions – a bowel blockage that might require surgery in a few cases
Allergic reactions appear within minutes of administering it. However, the more serious side effects mentioned above should ideally not last more than a week. If they persist, please contact your doctor immediately.
FAQs:
1. Is Rotavirus Vaccine Necessary?
Yes, it is safer to get your baby vaccinated against this disease that has symptoms similar to any other infection.
2. What is the Rotavirus Vaccine Age Limit?
Babies between 2 and 8 months of age can take it.
3. Is there a Rotavirus Vaccine Schedule?
Rotavirus vaccine is generally given at 2 months, 4 months and at 6 months if a third dosage is necessary.
4. What is the Rotavirus Vaccine Cost?
The Rotavirus vaccine cost depends on the brand as one requires 2 dosages while the other requires 3. Please check with your pediatrician.
5. Is Rotavirus Contagious?
Yes, Rotavirus is highly contagious. It can not only spread easily between babies (especially in a baby care center) but can also spread to the adults handling the babies as well. It can transfer to other babies through the adult as well.
Read Also : Guide To Compulsory & Optional Vaccines For Babies
