Rotavirus

What is rotavirus?

The rotavirus is the primary cause of vomiting and diarrhoea in babies and infants. It is often associated with a fever and earache. The greatest danger for babies is certainly the loss of fluids, which must be treated and can require admission into hospital. The rotavirus is excreted through the intestines. The virus is often transmitted through intake into the mouth, e.g. using contaminated items. On average, it takes 1 to 3 days from infection for the symptoms to appear.

Vaccination advice for babies

The rotavirus vaccination is part of the free child vaccination programme in Austria up until they are six months old. The Austrian Vaccination Plan recommends the rotavirus vaccination for all babies. It is offered as an oral vaccination.

Vaccination schedule

First vaccination: At 7 weeks old Second vaccination: At 3 months old (4 weeks after the first vaccination) Third vaccination: At 4 months old (4 weeks after the second vaccination) – dependent on the vaccine

The series of vaccinations must be completed by time the child is six months old.

The oral vaccination provides more than 70% protection against rotavirus diarrhoea and more than 90% protection against severe rotavirus vomiting and diarrhoea.

Information and consultancy service

Want to protect your baby? Need more information on rotavirus vaccinations?

Seek advice from your paediatrician or at an adult advice centre.

Free child vaccinations