Still Have Questions?

• Can a rotavirus infection itself cause intussusception, or only the vaccine?

  Both can cause it, but the vaccine introduces specific potential risks. A natural rotavirus infection has been linked to intestinal inflammation that may trigger intussusception in rare instances. However, the risk of intussusception rises slightly after rotavirus immunization, which is why it's listed in the compensation program. The condition has also been seen after other vaccines, including the oral polio vaccine, though those cases are even rarer.

• What kind of lawyer should I work with for a vaccine injury claim?

  You need experienced vaccine injury attorneys—not general personal injury firms. These claims are filed in federal court and follow a specific process. Our law offices represent families nationwide in vaccine-related injury cases, including those involving intussusception. We were among the first to represent clients for this condition when it became compensable. Our first clients helped establish medical timelines that are still used today.

• Why do some children have worse outcomes than others?

  In some rare cases, the condition progresses faster or goes undiagnosed for too long. If a doctor promptly identifies the signs, the outlook improves. When treatment is delayed, children can suffer severe dehydration, loss of intestinal tissue, or even long-term feeding issues. These are classified as serious complications, and they often lead to higher compensation amounts. This is especially true for children under one year old, though older children can also be affected.

• How does rotavirus vaccination compare to the risks of the virus itself?

  The CDC and other disease control agencies track adverse events to balance benefits and risks. The rotavirus vaccine prevents thousands of hospitalizations each year for rotavirus gastroenteritis, a condition that causes intense diarrhea and vomiting. However, it also carries a small but increased risk of intussusception. That tradeoff is why families with concerns about underlying medical conditions or sudden onset of symptoms are encouraged to review timing carefully and consider compensation if needed.

• Can I still file a claim if the original injury was misdiagnosed as something else—like a shoulder injury?

  Yes. We have handled cases where the first symptom was incorrectly interpreted, including misdiagnoses like constipation, gas pain, or even a shoulder injury in infants. What matters is that the medical records eventually confirmed intussusception, and that it happened within the post-vaccine window. We can review the timeline and update your case accordingly—even if the diagnosis came after delays or confusion.