• 1 week ago

Optional Vaccines: Rotavirus, Meningococcal, and HPV

Why Are Optional Vaccines So Important?

While not currently included in Turkey’s national immunization schedule, several vaccines are globally recommended due to the severity and rapid progression of the infections they prevent.

These vaccines—Rotavirus, Meningococcal, and HPV—offer individual protection against diseases that can result in hospitalization or long-term complications. Choosing to vaccinate with these options is not about adding unnecessary doses—it’s about adding targeted protection based on science.

1. Rotavirus Vaccine

What It Prevents:

Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration in infants. It’s a leading cause of hospitalization in babies under 2 years.

How It Works:

  • Administered orally (not via injection)
  • Helps the immune system recognize and fight the virus
  • Prevents the need for IV fluids or hospitalization

When & How Many Doses?

  • Start at 6 weeks of age
  • 2-dose (Rotarix) or 3-dose (Rotateq) schedules
  • Final dose must be given before 8 months of age

Side Effects:

  • Mild diarrhea, irritability
  • Rarely, intussusception (1 in 100,000 cases)

2. Meningococcal Vaccine

What It Prevents:

Meningococcus bacteria can cause meningitis (brain infection) and sepsis (blood infection), which can progress rapidly and be fatal in young children.

Why It’s Important:

  • Highest risk is in children under 2
  • Cases still occur in Turkey and globally
  • Disease can progress in hours—even in healthy children

Types and Timing:

There are two types of meningococcal vaccines:

MenACWY (Covers 4 strains: A, C, W, Y)

  • Start at 9 months of age
  • 2 doses: first dose + booster 12 months later

MenB (Covers the dangerous B strain)

  • Start as early as 2 months
  • Given in 2–3 doses depending on age

Side Effects:

  • Injection site soreness
  • Low-grade fever
  • Temporary fussiness or reduced appetite

3. HPV Vaccine

What It Prevents:

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) causes:

  • Cervical cancer
  • Genital warts
  • Some head and neck cancers

Who Should Get It?

  • Recommended for both girls and boys starting at age 9
  • Most effective when given before sexual activity begins

Doses & Schedule:

  • Ages 9–14: 2 doses (0 and 6 months)
  • Age 15 and older: 3 doses (0, 1, and 6 months)

Protection:

  • Gardasil 9 protects against 9 HPV strains, including the most cancer-causing types (16, 18)

Side Effects:

  • Mild pain or swelling at injection site
  • Dizziness or fainting (more common in adolescents)

Are These Vaccines Free?

Currently, optional vaccines are not covered under the Turkish National Vaccine Program and must be paid for privately. However, they are readily available at most private pediatric clinics and some public hospitals.

Important to remember:

Optional doesn’t mean unnecessary—these vaccines are recommended based on scientific evidence and public health value.

Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu’s Role in Vaccine Guidance

  • Helps determine your child’s eligibility and timing for optional vaccines
  • Explains the benefits and risks with clarity and scientific accuracy
  • Customizes a vaccine calendar based on your child’s needs and medical history
  • Follows up on side effects and provides support
  • Keeps you informed of global updates and best practices