Rotavirus gastroenteritis

Rotavirus is an extremely contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis. It is the main cause of severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children.

The infection is transmitted via the faecal-oral route. Hands contaminated with the faeces of an infected person (such as when changing nappies) carry the virus to the mouth of another person (e.g. when preparing food).

Direct contact and the sharing of toys and drinks between young children are also sources of contamination.

Vaccination schedule

• Vaccination: 2, 3 and 4 months

The rotavirus vaccine is oral. The vaccination schedule recommends vaccinating children with three oral doses at 2, 3 and 4 months of age. Administration of the vaccine after 6 months of age is contraindicated.