When is the rotavirus vaccine typically administered?

The rotavirus vaccine is typically administered at 2 months and 4 months of age. This schedule is designed to maximize the vaccine's effectiveness in infants, who are particularly vulnerable to severe gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus.

During the early months of life, infants are exposed to various pathogens, and the rotavirus can lead to significant dehydration and complications. Administering the vaccine at 2 months primes the immune system, and giving the second dose at 4 months enhances protection. Following this schedule helps ensure that the child builds adequate immunity to fight off the virus effectively should they be exposed to it later on.

Other options listed do not reflect the recommended vaccination schedule. Administering the vaccine at birth and 2 months would miss an important booster dose. The suggested timelines of 6 months and 12 months, and 12 months only, do not conform to the established guidelines and would not provide timely immunity against rotavirus during the critical early months of life.