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Rotavirus Vaccine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 9, 2024.

Applies to rotavirus vaccine: oral powder for suspension, oral suspension.

Other dosage forms:

Serious side effects of rotavirus vaccine

Along with its needed effects, rotavirus vaccine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking rotavirus vaccine:

More common side effects

  • diarrhea
  • earache
  • fever
  • headache
  • irritability
  • muscle aches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • pain or cramping in the abdomen or stomach
  • sore throat
  • stuffy or runny nose
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common side effects

  • chest tightness
  • cough
  • noisy breathing
  • trouble breathing

Rare side effects

  • black, tarry stools
  • confusion
  • decreased urination
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • fainting
  • increase in heart rate
  • lightheadedness
  • loss of appetite
  • rapid breathing
  • seizures
  • sunken eyes
  • thirst
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • wrinkled skin

Incidence not known

  • blood in the urine
  • bloody nose
  • heavier menstrual periods
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • red eyes
  • red mouth
  • skin rash
  • swollen glands
  • swollen hands and feet
  • unusual bleeding or bruising

Other side effects of rotavirus vaccine

Some side effects of rotavirus vaccine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • crying, fussiness, or irritability
  • runny nose

Less common side effects

  • bloated
  • excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
  • full feeling
  • passing gas

Incidence not known

  • hives or welts
  • itching
  • redness of the skin
  • skin rash

For healthcare professionals

Applies to rotavirus vaccine: oral liquid, oral powder for reconstitution, oral suspension.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were irritability, cough, runny nose, fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Other

Respiratory

Psychiatric

Dermatologic

Metabolic

Hypersensitivity

Nervous system

Cardiovascular

Hematologic

Genitourinary

References

1. (2006) "Product Information. RotaTeq (rotavirus vaccine)." Merck & Co., Inc

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

3. (2008) "Product Information. Rotarix (rotavirus vaccine)." GlaxoSmithKline

4. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

Further information

Rotavirus vaccine side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.