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Rotavirus vaccine - About the rotavirus vaccine

The rotavirus vaccine is given to help protect your baby against rotavirus infection. 

Almost all children have had rotavirus by the time they are five. The number of reported cases of rotavirus has reduced by over 70% since the vaccine was introduced into the UK childhood programme. 

The vaccine is given as a liquid straight into the baby’s mouth for them to swallow. The brand name of the vaccine used in the UK is Rotarix. This vaccine has been used in many countries for more than 10 years. 

You can find more information on the vaccine and the disease it protects against at the NHS 111 Wales website or you can visit the World Health Organization website.

Eligibility for the vaccine

The rotavirus vaccine is given to babies as part of their routine childhood immunisations. The rotavirus vaccine is offered to your baby at eight and 12 weeks of age.

Your baby needs two rotavirus vaccinations at least four weeks apart to be fully protected. If they miss the first dose, they can have it up to the age of 15 weeks. If they miss the second dose, they can have it up to the age of 24 weeks. Rotarix should not be used in children over 24 weeks of age.

Safety and effectiveness

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent severe diarrhoea and vomiting caused by rotavirus infection. No vaccine is 100% effective, so it is still important to know the signs and symptoms of rotavirus infection, even if you or your child are vaccinated. Visit the rotavirus page to learn more about the signs and symptoms of rotavirus.

Side effects of the vaccine

Babies who have the vaccine can sometimes become restless and irritable, and some may develop mild diarrhoea. 

Very rarely (between 1 and 6 of every 100,000 babies vaccinated), the rotavirus vaccine can affect a baby’s intestine (bowel), and they may develop a rare gut disorder called intussusception. This causes a blockage in the intestine. 

The symptoms of intussusception are: 

  • tummy ache
  • being sick; and
  • poo that looks like redcurrant jelly in the baby’s nappy.

If this happens, contact your doctor immediately. 

Other reactions are rare. For more information on common and rare side effects visit the patient leaflet about Rotarix. 

If you are concerned about symptoms call NHS 111 Wales. Calls to NHS 111 Wales are free from landlines and mobile phones.

You can report suspected side effects of vaccines and medicines through the Yellow Card scheme. You can do this online by visiting Yellow Card’s website or by calling the Yellow Card scheme hotline on 0800 731 6789 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm). 

Page last reviewed: 16th May 2025