Rotarix®
What Rotarix is used for
Rotarix is a viral vaccine that helps to protect your child against gastro-enteritis (diarrhoea and vomiting) caused by rotavirus infection.
Rotavirus infection is the most common cause of severe diarrhoea in infants and young children. Rotavirus is easily spread by hand-to-mouth contact with stool from an infected person. Most children with rotavirus diarrhoea recover on their own. Some children become very ill with severe vomiting, diarrhoea and life-threatening loss of fluids that requires hospitalisation. Rotavirus infections are responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide every year especially in developing countries, where nutrition and health care are not optimal.
When a person is given the vaccine, the immune system (the body's natural defences) will make antibodies against the most commonly occurring types of rotavirus. These antibodies protect against disease caused by these types of rotavirus.
As with all vaccines, Rotarix may not completely protect all people who are vaccinated against the infections it is intended to prevent. The vaccine will not protect against gastro-enteritis caused by other types of viruses or organisms.
Rotarix is not addictive.
Consumer Medicine Information on Rotarix.
Rotarix (Oral rotavirus vaccine) is available as a powder and mixing liquid for ORAL administration, and contains not less than 106.0 CCID50 per 1mL dose. The vaccination course consists of two doses and should be completed by the age of 24 weeks. Rotarix is a private purchase Prescription Medicine for the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis (mild to severe nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhoea caused by rotavirus). You will need to pay for this medicine. Rotarix does not protect against gastroenteritis due to causes other than rotavirus. Use strictly as directed. Rotarix IS AN ORAL VACCINE AND SHOULD NEVER BE INJECTED. Do not have a Rotarix vaccination if your child has an allergy to any component of the vaccine; has had an allergic reaction after receiving other rotavirus vaccines; or has a history of chronic gastrointestinal disease.
Before receiving Rotarix, tell your doctor if your child is suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting. After your child receives Rotarix, be sure to wash your hands after changing the child’s nappies. Side effects may include irritability, sleepiness, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, excess gas in the stomach or bowel, stomach pain or discomfort, spitting up of food, constipation, skin rash, or fever. If your child has side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. Additional Consumer Medicine Information for Rotarix is available at www.medsafe.govt.nz.
Normal doctor's office visit fees apply. Ask your doctor if Rotarix is right for your child.
Rotarix is a trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited, Auckland. TAPS DA89KH/08MY/066
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