Optional Vaccinations - Page 3

6. Rotavirus Vaccine

Rotavirus is a virus that infects the gastrointestinal tract causing gastroenteritis.  Nearly every child worldwide will have at least one rotavirus infection before their 5th birthday.  1 in 3 hospitalizations due to diarrhoea in Singapore are caused by rotavirus. Infections are most frequent and severe in infants between 3 - 24 months old.

Dose:
2 oral doses (Dose 1 at 6 weeks and Dose 2 at 24 weeks).

Common Side Effects:
Slight irritability, loss of appetite.

7. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infection, and certain  species of HPV have an association with the development of cervical cancer, genital warts and some less  common  cancers.  The HPV vaccine works by preventing the most common types of HPV that cause cervical cancer.  2  HPV vaccines are currently available: Gardasil and Cervirix. 
It is important to remember that even after vaccination, one would still have to go for regular PAP smears.

Dose:
It is indicated for girls between the ages of 9 and 26 years.  However, there are studies which suggest that they are effective in preventing cervical cancer for women up to 45 years of age.
3 injections are required over a 6 month period.

Common Side Effects:
Mild soreness over injection site. Mild to moderate fever.