BELMOPAN, Belize (CMC) — Belizean health authorities have introduced the rotavirus vaccine into the country’s national vaccination schedule, describing it as a vital step in reducing preventable diarrheal illnesses in children.

The vaccine is highly effective in preventing severe rotavirus disease and reducing the risk of death from dehydration caused by rotavirus.

The symptoms of the rotavirus infection include diarrhoea, vomiting and severe dehydration, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness said that these symptoms can significantly impact children’s health and long-term well-being.

It said that the rotavirus is transmitted primarily through the faecal–oral route, either directly from person to person or indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces and materials.

“Infected individuals release high concentrations of the virus in stool and vomit for several days, making outbreaks difficult to contain. While the need for rigid and frequent hand hygiene practice is important, vaccination remains the most effective defence against rotavirus,” the ministry said.

The rotavirus vaccine is administered orally in three doses at two, four, and six months of age, and the authorities said that it is available at all public health centres and through the ministry’s mobile clinics.