News

Rotavirus Vaccine News

On March 22, 2010 the FDA has recommended that clinicians temporarily suspend the use of Rotarix, a rotavirus vaccine given to infants.  The vaccine has been found to contain particles of porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1).  This virus does not cause illness in humans or other animals.  There are no known negative effects to children who have received this vaccine.  There is no evidence for a safety concern, but until more is learned about the situation, the FDA has issued this recommendation.

At Pediatric Associates, we have used another rotavirus vaccine called RotaTeq.  This vaccine is manufactured in a different way and has not been found to contain the PCV1 virus.  If your child has received all of his/her vaccines from our practice, then she/he has received the RotaTeq.  This vaccine is not included in the FDA suspension.  Since rotavirus disease can be quite severe, with potential for dehydration and hospitalization, will will continue to recommend the RotaTeq vaccine to our eligible patients.  We continue to feel that this vaccine is safe and effective, and we will continue to monitor the situation with the FDA.

For the full FDA news release, please go to http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm205625.htm

 

Back to news