Why get vaccinated?

Rotavirus live vaccine may prevent gastroenteritis (serious diarrhea and vomiting) that may occur with infection due to certain types of rotavirus viruses.

Infection with rotavirus can cause serious dehydration (loss of body fluids) that may result in hospitalization.

Rotavirus live vaccine contains 4 strains or live virus that has been weakened so it does not cause disease but can still stimulate the body to make antibodies against the virus to provide a defense against potential infection.

This vaccine does not offer full protection against rotavirus gastroenteritis. There are many different forms of rotavirus and this vaccine only covers a portion of them.

How is the vaccine given?

Rotavirus live vaccine comes as a suspension (liquid) to be given orally by a healthcare provider.

Rotavirus live vaccine is given as two doses. The first dose is given beginning at 6 weeks of age. The second vaccine dose should be given at least 4 weeks later, but before the child is 24 months of age.

What should you tell the person who is giving the vaccine?

Tell your vaccine provider if your child:

• has had an allergic reaction to this vaccine, any part of this vaccine, any other vaccine or any drug, food or substance. Tell your vaccine provider about the allergy and what symptoms they had.
• has a history of a serious problem called intussusception that happenswhen a part of the intestine gets blocked or twisted, a problem with the digestive system at birth that has not been corrected with surgery, or Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID; a severe problem with the immune system).
• has cancer, immune system problems, or if they currently have diarrhea or vomiting.
• will be in close contact with someone who has problems with their immune system or is being treated for cancer.

In some cases, your health care provider may decide to postpone vaccination to a future visit.

What are the risks from vaccination?

Side effects that have been reported with rotavirus live vaccine include:

• fussiness or irritability
• loss of appetite
• cough, runny nose

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:

• vomiting, diarrhea, bloody bowel movement, fever, severe stomach pain
• fever, rash, red eyes and mouth, swollen glands, swollen hands and feet
• rash, hives, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, mouth, lips and tongue

A child who gets the rotavirus vaccine may pass small amounts of the virus in their stool for up to 10 days afterward. Wash hands and dispose of diapers in a safe manner to prevent the spread of the virus to household contacts. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of receiving this vaccine.

Adverse reactions should be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Your health care provider will usually file this report, or you can do it yourself. Visit https://vaers.hhs.gov or call 1-800-822-7967. VAERS is only for reporting reactions, and VAERS staff members do not give medical advice.

How can I learn more?

• Read the Vaccine Information Sheet (VIS) that your vaccine provider will give you or you can obtain it at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/current-vis/index.html
• Ask your healthcare provider.
• Call your local or state health department.

Brand name(s)

• Rotarix^®

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. represents that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. does not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS^® Patient Medication Information™. © Copyright, 2026. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists^®, 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.

Selected Revisions: June 15, 2026.