Yes. Children may get infected with rotavirus more than once even those who are vaccinated. The immunity developed from natural infection with rotavirus or via vaccination does not provide full protection from future infections. However, children who are vaccinated are less likely to get sick from rotavirus as compared to those who are not vaccinated. At least 90% of vaccinated children are protected from severe rotavirus disease.

Rotavirus typically spreads between patients and care takers who don’t maintain strict hand hygiene, leading to vicious cycle of recurring infection within a family.

Currently, there are two rotavirus vaccine licensed in Malaysia namely RotaTeq, which is given in 3 doses at ages 2,4,6months and Rotarix, which is given in 2 doses at ages 2 & 4 months. These vaccines are given orally instead of intramuscular injection. All doses of rotavirus vaccine should be completed before child turn 8months old.

This article was contributed by Dr Goh Chun Hwee, Consultant Paediatrician at Pantai Hospital Ampang. To know more about where and when to see Dr Goh Chun Hwee at his clinic, click here.