Uptake of Rotavirus Vaccine (RotaTeq®) among Infants in Immunization Registries and Adherence to Age Recommendations for Vaccine Administration

Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
1.Describe vaccination uptake of the rotavirus vaccine (RotaTeq®)
2.Define rotavirus vaccination coverage estimates at sentinel sites
3.Assess adherence by providers to the ACIP recommended schedule for rotavirus vaccination

Background:
In February 2006, a new rotavirus vaccine (RV), RotaTeq® was licensed in the U.S. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended it for routine vaccination of U.S. infants with 3 doses, stating the first dose be administered between ages 6-12 weeks, and vaccination not be initiated for infants aged >12 weeks. Subsequent doses are administered at 4-10 week intervals; all doses should be administered by age 32 weeks.

Objectives:
To assess the uptake of RV since its licensure, to assess coverage levels at sentinel sites and examine adherence by providers to the ACIP recommended schedule for vaccine administration.

Methods:
Data on RV by month of administration, age at administration and dose number as of approximately May 31, 2007 were reported by three data sources: state immunization information systems (IIS), IIS sentinel sites and the Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD). One dose vaccination coverage levels were reported by IIS sentinel sites.

Results:
Uptake of RV has increased steadily since introduction. Coverage with one dose at IIS sentinel sites ranged 40%-64% for infants aged 3 months. An estimated 89%-95% of first doses were administered at age 6-12 weeks. Of all doses reported, 0.7%-1.8%, were administered at age >32 weeks.

Conclusions:
The great majority of RV is being administered within the age recommendations, but a small percentage of infants in these data sources received RV outside the recommended schedule. Providers should be attentive to follow the age recommendations, noting that vaccination should not be initiated for infants aged >12 weeks. Efforts to monitor vaccine uptake, identify potential barriers to vaccine implementation, and increase coverage levels similar to other recommended infant vaccines should continue.