Rotavirus vaccination risks

[losull45]

Hi everyone.

My 8 week old baby is due to have his 1st set of vaccinations next week and I’m aware that the rotavirus drops are live and I take azathioprine. I looked it up on the nhs website as I was looking to see if there were any risks to me, but on there it said that babies who’s mother has taken immunosuppressants through pregnancy or when breastfeeding (of which I have done both) shouldn’t have the vaccination. I could be extra careful if it was just a risk to me but now I’m wondering if there is a risk to him?My GP surgery just invited us to have them and haven’t told me about any risks even though they know my medical history so I’m not sure whether to turn it down or not now. Any similar experiences or advice?

Many thanks,

Lyndsey

[Spanielmadlady]

Congratulations on your new baby.have you asked your consultant for advice ? Or rheumatology nurse if you have access to one.my baby boy (now 17 😁) cant gave the children's flu vaccine because its live and the risk is to me is to great and I know I can be exposed to the polio vaccine either so I think I'd be asking my consultant xEnjoy every minute of your baby it goes by far to quickly and I hope you stay well x

[humblebumble]

Is rotavirus life threatening? If not then is it worth risking the jab? Probably not

[nwfrugalista]

I would definitely seek advice from your baby’s physician as well as your own regarding safety of the vaccine for you both given your risk factors. My son (now 15) did not receive the rotavirus vaccine (we are in the US and it had been pulled from the market and was unavailable during his infancy). He contracted rotavirus and it very nearly took his life. He suffered severe vomiting and diarrhea and for seven days wasn’t able to hold anything down, becoming dehydrated and weakened to the point of hospitalization. He lost over 25% of his body weight (which was extremely concerning because he was already on the small side). It was terrifying as his mother to watch. Thankfully he did recover although it took months for him to regain weight and strength.

All of that to say that: yes, rotavirus can indeed be life-threatening in infants, and that if you are advised that the vaccine is safe for you both that it is worth giving careful consideration. Best wishes for you both xx

[Main1234]

Hi congratulations on your new baby.Health professionals would usually ask before giving consent for the vaccine if there are immune suppressed parents or carers in the family. We would discuss with parents/carers and possibly think about risk . Using gloves to change nappies and extra careful hand washing is advised.

You would be wise to contact your consultant but rotovirus In little ones can be really nasty so you need to weigh up the risks.