Can My Baby Get Rotavirus Vaccine Without First Pneumococcal Shot?

Q: Can My Baby Get Rotavirus Vaccine Without First Pneumococcal Shot?

Dear Hsueh： In response to your question, generally, infants over 2 months of age can receive the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7), although the number of doses varies (4 doses for infants under 6 months, 3 doses for those aged 7-12 months, 2 doses for children aged

Baby vaccination

May I ask a question? My baby is almost five months old and is scheduled to receive the rotavirus vaccine at the end of the month.
However, they have not yet received the first dose of the pneumococcal vaccine.
Is it still okay to administer the rotavirus vaccine?

Xue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/06/25

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Dear Hsueh: In response to your question, generally, infants over 2 months of age can receive the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7), although the number of doses varies (4 doses for infants under 6 months, 3 doses for those aged 7-12 months, 2 doses for children aged 1-2 years, and 1 dose for those over 2 years).
A 5-month-old infant can certainly receive the 7-valent pneumococcal vaccine (it can be administered simultaneously with the rotavirus vaccine).
Sincerely, Dr.
Hsiao Kai-Wen, Pediatrics, Qishan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/06/25

More Info

Yes, your baby can receive the rotavirus vaccine even if they have not yet received the first dose of the pneumococcal vaccine. The rotavirus vaccine is not dependent on the pneumococcal vaccine or any other vaccines being administered first.
The rotavirus vaccine is an oral vaccine that is typically given to infants to protect against rotavirus infections, which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration in young children. The recommended schedule for the rotavirus vaccine is to start the series at 2 months of age, with subsequent doses given at 4 months and possibly 6 months, depending on the specific vaccine used (Rotarix or RotaTeq).
In your case, since your baby is approaching 5 months, it is important to ensure that they receive the rotavirus vaccine as soon as possible, as the first dose is recommended to be given before 15 weeks of age, and the series should be completed by 8 months of age.
Regarding the pneumococcal vaccine, it is also important for infants to receive this vaccine as it protects against pneumococcal diseases, which can lead to serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The pneumococcal vaccine is typically given in a series starting at 2 months of age, with additional doses at 4 months, 6 months, and a booster dose at 12-15 months.

While it is ideal to follow the recommended vaccination schedule, missing one vaccine does not prevent the administration of another. However, it is always best to consult with your pediatrician regarding your child's vaccination schedule and any concerns you may have. Your healthcare provider can give you personalized advice based on your child's health history and current immunization status.

In summary, your baby can receive the rotavirus vaccine without having received the pneumococcal vaccine first. It is crucial to keep up with vaccinations to ensure your child's health and protection against preventable diseases. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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