Rationale for In-Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Administration of Live, Attenuated Rotavirus Vaccination

Abstract

Rotavirus is the most common nonseasonal vaccine preventable illness. Despite increased severity of rotaviral illness in early infancy, most neonatal intensive care units (NICU) do not administer rotavirus vaccination either during the NICU stay at age of eligibility or at discharge as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends. In this commentary, we review the rationale for the administration of rotavirus vaccination to premature infants. Further, we outline data supporting vaccine administration at chronologic age while still admitted to the NICU.

Clinical Tolerance of In-Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Administration of Rotavirus Vaccine

“…Hence, this data may mitigate concerns that RV5 vaccination may escalate clinical needs or otherwise complicate admission. 18,19 These results strengthen findings seen in previous pilot studies. 8,9 Goveia et al found no difference in serious adverse events between placebo and RV5, while Roué et al found no difference in serious adverse events between preterm and term infants.…”