Belize Joins Region in Introducing Rotavirus Vaccine for Infants

Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has added the rotavirus vaccine to the National Vaccination Schedule to combat diarrhoeal disease in children under five.

The vaccine is administered orally in three doses at two, four, and six months of age. It is now available at all public health centres and through MoHW mobile clinics.

“While the need for rigid and frequent hand hygiene practice is important, vaccination remains the most effective defence against rotavirus,” the MoHW stated.

Rotavirus is the leading cause of acute diarrhoea in children globally. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, and severe dehydration. The virus spreads through the faecal–oral route and is highly contagious via contaminated hands, surfaces, and materials.

Severe cases of rotavirus are more common in developing countries. Most Central American nations, including Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, introduced the vaccine years ago. Until now, Belize had not.