Changing epidemiology of intussusception in Australia

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Oral rotavirus vaccines are expected to become available in Australia within the next 2 years. In light of evidence for an association between a rotavirus vaccine and intussusception, it is important to define the baseline epidemiology of intussusception in Australia and establish a system for intussusception surveillance in the immediate post-licensure period. This study reports on incidence and epidemiology of intussusception in Australia. METHODS: Data were obtained from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare on all patients with a discharge diagnosis of intussusception from public and private hospitals in each state and territory of Australia from 1994 to 2000. We exa..