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Vaccinations

Rotavirus vaccine

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The rotavirus vaccine is recommended for babies because rotavirus spreads very easily and can make some babies very ill.

The rotavirus vaccine is for babies. They're given a dose of the vaccine at 8 weeks old and 12 weeks old.

A small number of babies cannot have the rotavirus vaccine, such as babies with a rare condition called severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).

You can check the ingredients in the rotavirus vaccine by asking to see the patient leaflet or searching for it online.

Your GP surgery will usually contact you to arrange your baby's rotavirus vaccinations. Speak to your GP surgery if you have not been contacted.

The rotavirus vaccine is a liquid that is squirted into your baby's mouth. They may need to be given another dose if they spit it out straight away.

The most common side effects of the rotavirus vaccine are diarrhoea and irritability. More serious side effects are very rare.

About 8 out of every 10 babies who have the rotavirus vaccine will be protected from diarrhoea and vomiting caused by rotavirus.

Page last reviewed: 13/12/2023
Next review due: 13/12/2026