 Receiving rotavirus vaccine (Rotarix)
Dear Patient,
Your health care provider has prescribed rotavirus vaccine for your baby to prevent rotavirus infection of the GI tract. This infection is a common cause of severe diarrhea and vomiting in babies. The infection can be so severe that a baby would need to be hospitalized. The brand name of this vaccine is Rotarix.
How your baby will receive rotavirus vaccine
Rotavirus vaccine is provided as a series of two doses of a liquid, given orally to your baby. The first dose is given at age 6 weeks, and the second dose is given at least 4 weeks later.
What to do if you miss a dose
Contact your health care provider.
What to do about side effects
Notify your health care provider if your child experiences side effects to this medication.
Common: fussiness, irritability, running nose, cough, fever.
Less common: nausea, vomiting.
What you must know about other medications
This vaccine may not be effective if it is given with immunosuppressants. Be sure to tell your child's health care providers about all medications and treatments your child is receiving.
Special directions
- Keep a record of each dose your child receives. Make sure you see your health care provider about 4 weeks after the first dose to receive the second dose.
- Feed your baby normally after each dose.
- Tell your health care provider if your baby has an allergic reaction to the first dose of the vaccine; the second dose may need to be delayed.
- Tell your health care provider if your baby is allergic to latex, has cancer, any problems with the immune system or if your baby will be in close contact with anyone who has cancer or immune system problems.
- Your baby may be fussy, irritable and have a fever. Ask your health care provide about the use of an anti-inflammatory to make the baby more comfortable.
Keep in mind
- If your baby has an acute illness or diarrhea, the vaccine doses may be delayed until the baby is well. Both doses must be received by the time the baby is age 24 weeks.
- Your baby may also get regularly scheduled immunizations when receiving Rotarix.
- Report vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, severe stomach pain, or blood in the stool.
For institutions
to distribute multiple copies of this document, a
licensing agreement is required from the publisher.
|
