In February of this year we announced the approval of the new oral vaccine against rotavirus, the main cause of severe gastroenteritis in infants, in fact almost all children under the age of five have suffered this type of condition at least once. Rotavirus is an infectious pathogen that causes pediatric gastroenteritis, ending the life of 500,000 children due to dehydration, especially children in the Third World.
Hereinafter the first oral vaccine against gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus is already available in Spain, it is Rotarix, a vaccine designed to be administered to children from the sixth week after birth.
The new vaccine consists of two doses that are administered within the first 6 months of the baby's life. Prompt protection of children against rotavirus is important and necessary and thus avoid infection and its fatal consequences. It has up to 96% effectiveness against gastroenteritis and there is no contraindication with respect to the rest of vaccines present in the childhood vaccination schedule.
Studies have shown total safety and have no side effects. From now on rotavirus infections will no longer have the incidence they presented and will improve the quality of life of children with new defenses.
