Andrew J. Spano
County Executive

July 15, 1999                                          Contact Mary Landrigan

Rotavirus Vaccine Suspended                 (914) 637-4713

The Westchester County Department of Health today notified the public that the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics are recommending that rotavirus vaccine use in children be temporarily discontinued.

Parents of infants who have received rotavirus vaccine within the past three weeks should contact their physician immediately if there are signs of gastrointestinal distress.

Preliminary studies indicate a possible relationship between rotavirus vaccine use in children and intussusception, a potentially serious form of bowel obstruction that requires immediate medical attention..

"Parents and physicians should be aware that, although the data is still quite preliminary, it is advisable that rotavirus vaccine not be used until further notice," stated Dr. Harold N. Adel, Commissioner.

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