The Weekly Epidemiological Record (WER) for 18 December 2009, vol. 84, 50 (pp 533–540) includes:
Rotavirus vaccines: an update.
The summary paragraphs from the WER report:
WHO’s recommendations
WHO recommends that rotavirus vaccine for infants should be included in all national immunization programmes. In countries where diarrhoeal deaths account for ≥10% of mortality among children aged <5 years, the introduction of the vaccine is strongly recommended.
WHO recommends that the first dose of either RotaTeq or Rotarix be administered at age 6–15 weeks. The maximum age for administering the last dose of either
vaccine should be 32 weeks. It is recommended that 2 doses of Rotarix be administered with the first and second doses of DTP rather than with the second and third doses. This ensures maximum immunization coverage and reduces the potential for late administration beyond the approved age window. This schedule will be reviewed as new data become available.
WHO reiterates that rotavirus vaccines are an important measure that can be used to reduce severe rotavirus-associated diarrhoea and child mortality. The use of rotavirus vaccines should be part of a comprehensive strategy to control diarrhoeal diseases; this strategy should include, among other interventions, improvements in hygiene and sanitation, zinc supplementation, community-based administration of oral rehydration solution and overall improvements in case management. http://www.who.int/wer/2009/wer8451_52.pdf