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Rotavirus Vaccine Injuries

Fighting for Vaccine Injury Victims – Get the Compensation You Deserve

The rotavirus vaccine prevents life-threatening illness in babies—but rare injuries may qualify for compensation through the VICP. Rotavirus is a contagious virus that causes vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach pain, and fever—often leading to severe dehydration in infants and young children. Nearly all children experience rotavirus infection by age 5, but for some, especially in developing countries or those with a weakened immune system, the effects can be life-threatening. This illness, called rotavirus gastroenteritis, is a leading cause of hospitalizations for babies worldwide. Because of its impact on pediatric infectious diseases, the rotavirus vaccine is part of standard immunization practices in the U.S. and globally. It's given by mouth in two doses or three doses, depending on the brand, and has drastically reduced severe illness caused by rotavirus disease.

Most infants tolerate rotavirus vaccination with only mild side effects, but in rare cases, more serious reactions can occur. One known complication is a bowel blockage called intussusception, which may happen after the first dose or second dose. Some children also experience a severe allergic reaction, high fever, or other symptoms requiring hospitalization. If your child developed complications following a rotavirus vaccine, you may be eligible for compensation through the federal Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

Rotavirus Vaccine | My Vaccine Lawyer

Hear Cheryl's Vaccine Injury Story

Cheryl, a former client of My Vaccine Lawyer, shares her experience with Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) following a flu shot. She describes the sudden onset of pain, limited shoulder mobility, and a long recovery process that led her to seek legal help from attorney Max Muller.

With his support, Cheryl filed a successful claim through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program and received a settlement covering her medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. SIRVA symptoms typically include sudden pain within 48 hours of vaccination, restricted range of motion, and discomfort that can last for weeks or months.

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Why Rotavirus Vaccine Injuries Deserve Attention

The rotavirus vaccine is part of routine immunization practices, but some infants still suffer rare and serious reactions. Injuries like intussusception, allergic reaction, and severe dehydration have been reported—most often after the first or second dose, particularly in babies with a weakened immune system or other risk conditions. These reactions can develop suddenly and may require hospitalization or emergency treatment. While the vaccine has helped reduce illness through strong disease control efforts, unexpected outcomes still occur and may qualify for compensation under the VICP.

How the Rotavirus Vaccine Is Given and Why Timing Matters

The rotavirus vaccine is a live oral vaccine given by mouth, not by injection. It must be administered on a strict schedule—either two doses or three doses, depending on the brand. The first dose is recommended before 15 weeks of age, and the final dose must be completed by 8 months. Delaying any of these can increase the risk of side effects and may disqualify a child from completing the full vaccination series. These timing rules come from the CDC and its advisory committee to reduce complications during early development.

Possible Side Effects That May Indicate a Legal Claim

While mild fever, vomiting, or irritability is common, some reactions may signal a more serious problem. Intussusception often shows up as uncontrollable crying, bloating, or blood in the stool. Ongoing diarrhea and vomiting may lead to severe dehydration, requiring IV fluids or urgent care. A severe allergic reaction may cause swelling, rash, or trouble breathing. These symptoms often appear within days of a rotavirus vaccination, and if they do, it’s critical to contact a child’s doctor or healthcare provider immediately. Early records support VICP claims.

Which Injuries Are Recognized by the VICP

The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) covers several post-vaccination conditions linked to rotavirus vaccination. These include intussusception, documented allergic reactions, and complications caused by severe dehydration. Injuries must appear within a specific timeframe after the vaccine is administered and must be supported by medical documentation. Hospitalization, persistent symptoms, or lasting harm may all strengthen a claim. A vaccine injury lawyer will review your child’s medical records to confirm whether the injury meets the federal eligibility guidelines.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Complications

Certain infants are more likely to develop complications from the rotavirus vaccine. Babies with a weakened immune system—including those undergoing treatment for cancer, on immunosuppressive drugs, or with undiagnosed immune disorders—face higher risks. Premature infants, those with gastrointestinal abnormalities, or a family history of bowel issues may also have an increased risk of developing intussusception or severe reactions. Parents should discuss these risk conditions with their child’s doctor before vaccination. In some cases, delaying or skipping the vaccine may be medically appropriate.

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Rotavirus Vaccine | My Vaccine Lawyer

Global Impact and Today’s Rotavirus Vaccination Data

Before widespread vaccination, rotavirus caused over 500,000 child deaths annually worldwide, with more than 90% occurring in developing countries. In response, the World Health Organization recommended global use of rotavirus vaccines in 2009. Countries like Malawi, Mexico, and Brazil—among the first countries to introduce routine rotavirus vaccination—saw hospitalizations for severe diarrhea drop by up to 70% within two years. In the U.S., rotavirus-related hospitalizations declined from 55,000 per year pre-vaccine to fewer than 15,000 by 2015. The greatest benefit has been seen in infants under age one, where mortality and severe dehydration have declined sharply.

Rotavirus infections in the U.S. now follow a biennial seasonal pattern, with peaks typically from January through May in colder regions. Immunization practices call for the first dose by 15 weeks and the final dose before 8 months, with catch-up doses not permitted beyond that age range. Long-term prevention efforts focus on maintaining high vaccination coverage, educating families about dosing windows, and monitoring outbreaks using CDC surveillance. Studies show that vaccinated children have 85–98% protection against severe disease in the first two years of life, though effectiveness may decline slightly after that, making early dosing essential for maximum impact.

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Rotavirus Vaccine | My Vaccine Lawyer

Legal Process for Filing a VICP Claim

The VICP is a federal system that allows families to seek compensation if a child experiences serious complications after a routine vaccine, including the rotavirus vaccine. This is a no-fault process—meaning you don’t sue your doctor or the vaccine manufacturer. Instead, your claim is reviewed by the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, which looks at your child’s vaccination records, medical history, and timing of symptoms. Injuries like intussusception, severe dehydration, or a documented allergic reaction following the first or second dose may all be eligible if they meet VICP criteria.

To file a claim, you’ll need strong medical documentation—this includes records from a healthcare provider, your child’s doctor, ER visits, and hospital stays. The most successful cases clearly show when the vaccine was given, how symptoms appeared, and what treatment was provided. The court also considers the presence of any underlying medical conditions that may affect risk. Legal representation is strongly recommended, and attorney fees are covered separately by the program if your case is filed in good faith, even if it’s not successful. VICP compensation can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Legal Process for Vaccine Injury Cases

Vaccine injury cases follow a unique legal process. Since these claims are handled under the VICP, they require an attorney with experience in federal vaccine litigation. At My Vaccine Lawyer, we start with a free consultation to assess your claim. We then gather medical records, expert testimony, and supporting evidence to build a strong case. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are prepared to take your case to trial.

1. Contact Your Doctor

If you suffered a vaccine-related injury, adverse effects or worsening symptoms, call your doctor immediately.

2. Call My Vaccine Lawyer

For a free consultation. We are licensed to practice in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.

Still Have Questions?

What should I do if my child gets sick shortly after the rotavirus vaccine?

If your child becomes sick—especially with vomiting, bloating, high fever, or blood in their stool—within a few days of the vaccine, seek medical care immediately. Even if symptoms appear mild, they could develop into a serious infection like intussusception or dehydration. Early evaluation helps your child receives prompt medication and supports any future legal claim. Keep a timeline of symptoms and get everything documented by your healthcare provider.
What are the available vaccines for rotavirus in the U.S.?

There are currently two available vaccines: Rotarix, which is given in two doses, and RotaTeq, which requires three. Both are oral vaccines and must be completed during infancy. Your pediatrician will select the appropriate vaccine based on age and timing. Although both are effective, they are not interchangeable—once your child starts a series, they should complete the same product unless instructed otherwise by their doctor.
Why is rotavirus vaccination more urgent in the developing world?

In the developing world, rotavirus is far more deadly due to limited access to clean water, medicine, and healthcare. Children in these regions often face complications like severe dehydration or malnutrition, which make them more vulnerable. Vaccination helps reduce hospital admissions and saves lives where supportive care is limited. The U.S. benefits from this data, as outcomes in the developing world have informed global safety standards and response strategies.
Why is the eight-year age limit important for VICP claims?

The VICP generally accepts claims for vaccine injuries if they occur within eight years of receiving the vaccine. This limit is especially relevant for rotavirus-related injuries, which are supposed to happen shortly after the first or second dose—all given in infancy. If your child developed symptoms months or even years later, but before the eight-year mark, you may still be eligible to file. It’s best to consult a vaccine injury lawyer as soon as possible to evaluate deadlines and documentation.
Can rotavirus spread through close contact even after vaccination?

Yes. Rotavirus is a contagious virus that spreads through close contact, especially in daycare or household settings. Even vaccinated children can carry and shed the virus for a short time after receiving an oral dose. This shedding is usually harmless but may pose a small risk to unvaccinated infants or people with compromised immune systems. Washing hands after diaper changes and careful hygiene during those days reduces incidence of household transmission.

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