Rotavirus Vaccine Free Immunization Implemented ... Targeting Infants Aged 2 to 6 Months

Prevention of Acute Diarrhea in Infants and Young Children and Reduction of Vaccination Cost Burden

Free Rotavirus Vaccination to Begin from March 6

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Dongguk Lee] Busan City will begin offering free rotavirus vaccinations for infants aged 2 to 6 months at national immunization delegated medical institutions starting March 6.

Rotavirus Free Vaccination Promotion Poster.

Rotavirus is a virus that commonly causes infectious diarrhea in infants and young children. It causes symptoms such as severe diarrhea and vomiting and can lead to outbreaks in postpartum care centers and daycare centers.

The ‘Rota vaccine’ provided free of charge this time includes two oral vaccines (Rotarix and Rotateq), both of which have demonstrated high effectiveness and safety in preventing rotavirus-induced acute diarrhea.

Parents can freely choose the type of vaccine, but after the first dose, all subsequent doses must be completed with the same manufacturer’s vaccine. Rotarix requires two doses at 2 and 4 months of age, while Rotateq requires three doses at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.

In particular, to achieve sufficient preventive effect, the rotavirus vaccine must be administered in 2 or 3 doses depending on the vaccine type used.

Rotavirus vaccination is available nationwide at national immunization delegated medical institutions and public health centers regardless of the infant’s residence. The list of nearby vaccination institutions by vaccine type can be checked on the Immunization Helper website.

To check rotavirus vaccination institutions (from February 27), visit the Immunization Helper website → Immunization Management → Find Designated Medical Institutions → Select Available Vaccines.

Mayor Park Hyung-jun said, “With the implementation of the national rotavirus vaccination program, the financial burden on parents for vaccination costs will be alleviated, serving as a foundation for the healthy growth of children, and we hope our city can become a ‘child-friendly city.’”