Rotavirus is an infectious disease caused by the Rotavirus, which is the most common pathogen responsible for viral gastroenteritis among infants and children under 5 years of age. It presents with symptoms such as low-grade fever, vomiting, and watery diarrhea that typically last for 3-7 days. Transmission primarily occurs through the fecal-oral route, while in rare cases, it can also happen through contact and respiratory routes. Throughout life, reinfections by Rotavirus are very common, and the severity of the disease decreases with repeated infections. Infants are particularly susceptible to severe diarrhea and dehydration caused by the virus. Diarrheal diseases are one of the leading causes of illness and death among children in this age group, especially in low-income countries. Rotavirus gastroenteritis is present worldwide, with seasonal peaks in Italy during the winter.

To prevent the spread of the disease, it is necessary to maintain good hygiene conditions both at home and in communities. Common hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing with soap and water, reduce the transmission of infection. The most effective prevention method in protecting children from severe forms of the disease is vaccination. Currently available vaccines have demonstrated an overall efficacy of over 80% and a reduction in severe forms, requiring hospitalization, of over 95% in vaccinated individuals.

The Rotavirus vaccine is administered orally and is recommended for all children starting from the sixth week of life. The vaccination schedule consists of 2 or 3 doses (depending on the vaccine used) and can be given simultaneously with other vaccines recommended in the first months of life (hexavalent, pneumococcal conjugate, and meningococcal B vaccines). The minimum interval between doses is 4 weeks, and the vaccination schedule should be completed no later than 24 or 32 weeks of age, depending on the vaccine used.

The vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine administered as an oral solution. Currently, two different Rotavirus vaccines are available.