The Complete Infant Vaccination Schedule: What Every New Parent Needs to Know

 Becoming a parent is a beautiful journey filled with milestones, from your baby’s first smile to their first steps. But one of the most crucial—and often overlooked—milestones is following the infant vaccine schedule. Vaccinations are a key part of preventive healthcare that help protect your little one from serious, and sometimes life-threatening, diseases.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete infant vaccine schedule, why it’s important, and what every new parent should expect.

Why Infant Vaccinations Matter

Infants are born with immature immune systems, making them vulnerable to infections. Vaccines help strengthen their immunity by preparing their bodies to fight specific diseases. Many of these diseases, like measles, whooping cough, and polio, can have severe complications if not prevented.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and national health agencies like the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) and CDC recommend a standardized infant vaccine schedule to ensure timely protection.

The Complete Infant Vaccine Schedule (India – IAP Guidelines)

Here’s a simplified version of the standard infant vaccine schedule commonly followed in India:

At Birth:

  • BCG (for tuberculosis)

  • OPV-0 (Oral Polio Vaccine)

  • Hepatitis B – 1st dose

6 Weeks:

  • DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis)

  • IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine)

  • Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)

  • Hepatitis B – 2nd dose

  • Rotavirus – 1st dose

  • Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) – 1st dose

10 Weeks:

  • DTaP – 2nd dose

  • IPV – 2nd dose

  • Hib – 2nd dose

  • Rotavirus – 2nd dose

14 Weeks:

  • DTaP – 3rd dose

  • IPV – 3rd dose

  • Hib – 3rd dose

  • Hepatitis B – 3rd dose

  • Rotavirus – 3rd dose (if 3-dose series)

  • PCV – 2nd dose

6 Months:

  • Influenza vaccine – 1st dose (optional but recommended)

9 Months:

  • MMR – 1st dose (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

  • Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV)

12 Months:

  • Hepatitis A – 1st dose

  • PCV – Booster dose

15–18 Months:

  • MMR – 2nd dose

  • DTaP – 1st booster

  • Hib – Booster

  • Varicella (Chickenpox) – 1st dose

💡 Note: Vaccine schedules may vary based on your country, baby’s health condition, or healthcare provider. Always consult your pediatrician.

Tips for Parents

  1. Stay on Schedule: Delays can reduce effectiveness and leave your child vulnerable.

  2. Track Digitally: Use apps or vaccination cards to keep records updated.

  3. Stay Calm on Vaccine Day: Babies might get cranky post-vaccination. Comfort them, ensure hydration, and consult your doctor for any unusual symptoms.

  4. Ask Questions: Never hesitate to clarify doubts with your pediatrician.

Final Thoughts

Following the infant vaccine schedule isn’t just about preventing illness—it’s about giving your child a healthy start to life. Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective tools in modern medicine. By staying informed and on time, you’re making one of the most powerful choices for your baby’s future.

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