Against gastroenteritis, two oral vaccines to be administered to infants have existed for several years. Not included in the vaccination schedule, they are now covered by Medicare. Objective: to prevent serious forms and hospitalizations.
Rotavirus is a virus responsible for acute gastroenteritis, manifested by fever, diarrhea and vomiting. Most cases are not serious, but these infections expose toddlers to dangerous dehydration. In France, rotavirus infection is responsible each year for approximately 155,000 consultations for acute diarrhea in children under 3 and 14,000 hospitalizations.
It is to prevent serious forms that two vaccines exist. However, these are not included in the list of immunizations to be carried out in the vaccination schedule. And until recently, parents had to fund them out of pocket. Now, since November 26, the two versions – Rotarix and RotaTeq – are covered by Medicare up to 65%.
Good news therefore for parents of infants under 6 months to whom Medicare recommends vaccinating their child. Administered orally by the doctor or midwife who prescribes it, they are indicated for all infants aged 6 weeks to 6 months. Very effective, they reduce the risk of severe rotavirus gastroenteritis by more than 85% during the first year of life.
To note : there is a risk of acute intussusception, ie a piece of intestine folding in on itself, within 3 to 7 days after vaccination. Parents must be vigilant and consult urgently if the baby has these symptoms: unusual crying, refusal to eat or drink, vomiting…