Rotavirus gastroenteritis | Vaccine and vaccination

Vaccine and vaccination

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Currently, two oral vaccines, monovalent and pentavalent vaccines are available. 

Rotavirus vaccines were introduced in five countries the Eastern Mediterranean region as part of the national EPI schedule. Monovalent rotavirus vaccine is administered orally in a two-dose schedule while pentavalent Rotavirus vaccine is administered orally in a three-dose schedule. The first dose of the vaccine should be administered during the period of 6 weeks to 15 weeks of age. Subsequent doses should be administered at 4-10 week intervals.  The maximum age for administering the last dose of the vaccine is recommended to be at 32 weeks of age.

Rotavirus vaccine can be administered together with other EPI vaccines with no interference with the immune response.