Rotavirus vaccine

The rotavirus vaccine protects children from vomiting and diarrhea caused by rotavirus infection. It is a liquid vaccine that is taken by mouth.

Vaccines can provide protection against a single disease, or can be made to provide protection against more than one disease. Rotavirus vaccine is available only in single vaccine format.

• Rota Teq®  (Merck)

In general, everyone should get the rotavirus vaccine. It is given in infancy. It is important to receive the vaccine at the right time. To find out more about when infants and children should get the rotavirus vaccine, see the Ontario Immunization Schedule (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care).

People who have had serious allergic reaction to any ingredient in the vaccine or to a previous dose of the vaccine itself should not receive the rotavirus vaccine.

Your health care provider will ask you questions about your health before giving you any vaccine. This will help them identify allergies you might have and safely manage potential allergic reactions.

You could have mild side effects after being vaccinated, but they usually go away in one to two days. Some people can be allergic to the vaccine, just like they might have a food or medication allergy.

Learn more about common vaccine side effects and what to do about them.

Yes. It is required that children be immunized against this disease to attend a licensed daycare in Ontario (Immunization of School Pupils Act, Child Care and Early Years Act).

To find out which vaccines are required for children to attend school or daycare in Ontario, see the School Immunization Checklist (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care).

Reporting vaccinations

Children attending daycare

• Parents and guardians must also report the vaccinations to Public Health to keep their records up-to-date.
• Exemptions: signed statements must be submitted for vaccination exemptions based on medical reasons or reasons of conscience or religious belief.

Cost

This vaccine is publicly funded, meaning it is free of charge for those who need it. No matter where you get the vaccine in Ontario, there is no cost (in a hospital, walk-in clinic, health care provider’s office or public health unit).

For a list of publicly funded vaccines in Ontario, see the Ontario Immunization Schedule.

Risks and benefits

Talk to your health care provider about getting vaccinated if you have special health conditions or concerns. Learn more about special considerations before being vaccinated.

• Public Health offers this vaccine at one of our immunization clinics.
• You may also be able to get vaccinated at your doctor’s office, a walk-in clinic or community health centre. Appointments may be required.

• Contact us.
• See our frequently asked questions or send us your question.
• See our list of helpful websites for information about vaccination.