Rotavirus is one of the life-threatening and contagious infections that diarrhea in the infected person. Infants are at risk of catching rotavirus and the rotavirus vaccine is the only preventing measure. The virus has the potential to cause inflammation in your stomach and intestine.
In certain cases, things turn out worst as it leads to pain, dehydration, and much more. That’s why rotavirus vaccination is given and suggested by medical professionals. But is it necessary? Here is some education on exactly what rotavirus is and how everyone gets it once or twice in their lifetime.
What is rotavirus vaccination?
A vaccine against rotavirus infections is a great way to protect your child from this dangerous disease. It has been estimated that rotavirus kills over half of the children who get it. Rotavirus infection is caused by a virus that lives in the intestines of babies and young children.
When an infected person eats or drinks something that’s contaminated with the virus particles, these particles make their way through the bacteria living in their intestines into the bloodstream (where they start spreading).
Vaccination Schedule
The vaccinations of your child are the key to preventing various diseases that can lead to serious health problems or even death. And both you and your child need to take these vaccines on time and at the right age. You can get to know that from your pediatrician only.
It is always a good idea to start early, and the best way to do that is by giving vaccines at the very soonest possible stage of your baby’s life. The Indian Academy of Paediatrics states that you should start vaccinating your kid against rotavirus from six weeks. And then it is given after 10 weeks and 14 weeks.
Risk Factors
Rotavirus is a common infection among the age group of 3 to 35 months. In addition, adults who spend time in the childcare setting are prone to suffer from rotavirus infection. Its risk is highest in the winter and spring seasons.
Other than them, unvaccinated people are always on target. If you’re unvaccinated and contract the virus, it can be fatal if left untreated. Don’t consider that your body is special and immune enough to deal with any harsh consequences.
Side Effects
Post-vaccination, your child will experience some mild symptoms such as feeling fussy, vomiting, and so on. Even bowel blockage occurs when just a week after the first and second doses of rotavirus vaccination. If you have any doubts, get in touch with your doctor for more information.
What to do after catching the infection?
For unvaccinated people, rotavirus can be fatal in certain cases when left untreated. It’s essential to get vaccinated against the Rotavirus virus if you are unvaccinated, or if you have a compromised immune system that makes it harder for you to fight off infections. This is because children who are not vaccinated face a much bigger risk of severe infections with this virus than those who have gotten vaccinated before.
Precautions
Rotavirus when passed through a child’s intestines and then into the bloodstream, can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. You can try precautionary measures to combat it and stop it:
- Keep washing your hands pretty often – after the toilet, changing your child’s diaper, before eating, etc.
- Better to use a sanitizer for improved protection
- Vaccination is a must no matter whether you have completed its series or not
Note: Some parents who were not aware of the rotavirus vaccination, have to understand the importance and take their child for vaccination as per the schedule.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to provide rotavirus vaccination to your child lies with you. That said, it is important to remember that giving your child a vaccine will not only keep them safe but also help protect the overall health of the public. However, if you are concerned about side effects and always follow a healthy lifestyle, there is no reason not to consider vaccination as an option. Just remember that vaccines are vital to public health, and they can potentially save your child’s life.
