An Introduction to Rotavirus Vaccine Side Effects
As with all vaccines, side effects are possible with the
rotavirus vaccine (
Rotarix®,
RotaTeq®). However, not everyone who gets vaccinated will have problems. In fact, most children tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with the rotavirus vaccine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of rotavirus vaccine side effects with you.)
Serious Side Effects Seen With the Rotavirus Vaccine
There are a number of rare but serious side effects with the rotavirus vaccine or other childhood vaccines that you should report to your child's healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
- A high fever
- Any unusual behavior changes (aside from the usual fussiness that typically occurs after vaccinations)
- A seizure
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing.
A previously marketed rotavirus vaccine (RotaShield
®) was taken off the market due to the risk of a serious intestinal side effect known as
intussusception (when one portion of the bowel slides over the other, creating a blockage). This does not appear to be a problem associated with the rotavirus vaccine, though. Nonetheless, it is important to seek immediate medical attention if your child develops symptoms of this problem, such as:
- Intense abdominal pain
- Inconsolable shrieking
- Bringing the knees to the chest
- Bright-red "currant jelly" stool
- Vomiting of green bile.
Very rare cases of Kawasaki disease have also been reported (too rare to know if there is any link to the vaccine). This disorder can be life-threatening if left untreated. Signs of Kawasaki disease include:
- Fever
- Rash
- Red mouth and eyes
- Swollen hands and feet
- Swollen glands.
