Rotavirus Vaccines

Rotavirus vaccine is the best way to protect your child against rotavirus disease.

Most children (about 9 out of 10) who get the vaccine will be protected from severe rotavirus disease. About 7 out of 10 children will be protected from rotavirus disease of any severity.

Two rotavirus vaccines are currently licensed for infants in the United States:

RotaTeq® is given in 3 doses at ages 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months
Rotarix® is given in 2 doses at ages 2 months and 4 months

The first dose of either vaccine should be given before a child is 15 weeks of age. Children should receive all doses of rotavirus vaccine before they turn 8 months old.

Both vaccines are given by putting drops in the child’s mouth.

What Everyone Should Know

Vaccine basics for parents of infants and children

Information for Health Care Professionals

Vaccine recommendations and contraindications; composition, dosage, and administration; handling and storage