Hospitalizations For Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Were Reduced After Licensing of a Pentavalent Rotavirus Vaccine

Background:

Rotavirus gastroenteritis is one of the most common causes of hospitalization in children and follows a seasonal pattern.  In February 2006 a pentavalent rotavirus vaccine was licensed and marketed for use in the US.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of the rotavirus vaccine on hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis, the use of rotavirus antigen tests and changes in rotavirus seasonal patterns at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

Methods:

: Patients were identified through a medical records search by ICD-9 code and through a laboratory information system search by positive rotavirus test results. The medical records of all patients hospitalized with confirmed rotavirus gastroenteritis from July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2009 were reviewed. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. 

Results:

The number of hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis decreased from 328 per 10,000 admissions from July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2006 to 91 per 10,000 admissions from July 1, 2006 to June 30 (p<0.001). The season onset and peak month of activity was delayed 1 to 2 months after the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine. The number of rotavirus tests done was statistically significantly reduced after the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine.

Conclusions:

Hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis were reduced by >70% when comparing rotavirus seasons pre and post vaccine licensure and marketing for use.  This translated in a yearly mean decrease of 143 admissions a year. We were also able to demonstrate a local change in the epidemiology of rotavirus infection with a delayed onset and peak month of activity. .Additionally we were able to demonstrate a decrease in the number of rotavirus tests done after the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine.