Rotavirus Vaccine

Rotavirus is the most important cause of gastroenteritis(diarrhoea) in children and infants worldwide. In Hong Kong, it is responsible for about 30% of gastroenteritis admissions into public hospitals. It typically affects infants aged 6 – 15 months. The diarrhea caused by Rotavirus is usually more severe and tends to give rise to dehydration moreoften, especially in young infants. Epidemiology studies have shown that by age 2 years, almost all babies would have had at least one Rotavirus infection, and about 40% has had up to 3 infections. Globally it is responsible for over 2 million admissions and 440,000 deaths annually.

Two oral vaccines, Rotateq and Rotarix, have become available since 2006. These vaccines are both equally good and can prevent severe infection requiring hospitalization in 85 to 96 % of cases. They have been included in the immunisation programmes of many countries worldwide and were found to be very effective and safe.

The vaccines are taken orally as a 3 dose (Rotateq) or 2 dose (Rotarix) regimen, and require no booster after that. They need to be completed by 6 months of age.

Rotateq contains G1, G2, G3, G4 & P(8) serotype, but is a human / cow reassortment vaccine. Rotarix contains the G1P(8) serotype, and is a human live attenuated vaccine. Both vaccines have similar efficacy and very safe side effect profiles.

We would recommend that all babies falling within the age group to take the vaccine.