CDC Data Show U.S. Rotavirus Infections Rising As Child Vaccinations Lag

CDC data show U.S. rotavirus infections rising while child vaccination rates lag. The increase has appeared in recent CDC surveillance and spans multiple regions, prompting concern among pediatricians and public-health officials. Rotavirus is a highly contagious stomach virus that spreads fast among young children and can lead to severe dehydration and hospital stays.

News accounts describe the illness as striking infants, toddlers, and patients with weakened immune systems hardest, and they say slower-than-expected vaccine uptake is likely widening the pool of susceptible children. Public-health experts emphasize that routine infant immunization remains the best protection against severe rotavirus disease and are urging parents to check vaccination status with their pediatrician.