Vaccines are among the safest and most effective ways to protect your child from serious diseases. Missing or delaying vaccines can leave a child unprotected during the most vulnerable years. This guide explains the vaccination schedule from birth to 5 years in simple language.
Important note: schedules are based on national and pediatric academy recommendations and may be updated from time to time. Your pediatrician will plan the exact dates and brands for your child, so please use this article as a general guide.
Why vaccination matters
- Protects your child from diseases that can cause serious illness, disability or death
- Protects other children in the community, including babies too young to be vaccinated
- Reduces hospital visits and medical costs
- Most side effects are mild, such as low fever, soreness or fussiness for a day or two
Simple vaccination chart (0 to 5 years)
- At birth: BCG (tuberculosis), oral polio (OPV 0) and Hepatitis B (first dose)
- 6 weeks: DTwP/DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), IPV (injectable polio), Hepatitis B, Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), Rotavirus, PCV (pneumococcal)
- 10 weeks: second doses of DTwP/DTaP, IPV, Hib, Rotavirus and PCV as per schedule
- 14 weeks: third doses of DTwP/DTaP, IPV, Hib, Rotavirus and PCV as per schedule
- 6 months: influenza vaccine (yearly) and, in many schedules, a further dose of oral polio or Hepatitis B as advised
- 9 months: MMR or measles-rubella first dose, and typhoid conjugate vaccine from this age as advised
- 12 months: Hepatitis A first dose, and PCV booster as per schedule
- 15 months: MMR second dose, Varicella (chickenpox) first dose
- 16 to 18 months: DTwP/DTaP booster, IPV booster, Hib booster
- 18 months: Hepatitis A second dose
- 2 years: typhoid conjugate vaccine booster or dose as advised
- 4 to 6 years: DTwP/DTaP booster, Varicella second dose, MMR as per schedule, and the yearly flu vaccine continues
Some vaccines, such as rotavirus, PCV, typhoid and HPV later in life, are recommended by pediatric bodies, and availability and national program coverage may vary. Please ask your pediatrician which vaccines are free under the government program and which are optional but recommended.
What if a vaccine is missed or delayed?
Do not panic. In most cases, you do not need to restart the series. Your pediatrician will plan a catch-up schedule so your child can get back on track. Try not to delay doses, because protection is best when vaccines are given on time.
Common side effects and what to do
- Mild fever and irritability for 1 to 2 days: give fluids and, if the doctor has advised, paracetamol
- Pain, redness or a small lump at the injection site: a cool cloth can help
- Sleepiness or poor feeding for a day
- Seek medical help immediately if your child has a high fever, persistent crying for more than 3 hours, a seizure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or a severe allergic reaction
Can my child be vaccinated if they have a cold or mild fever?
A minor cold or a mild illness is usually not a reason to delay vaccines. If your child is moderately or severely ill, your pediatrician may advise postponing. Always inform the doctor about any recent illness, allergies or medicines.
Tips for parents on vaccine day
- Carry the vaccination card to every visit and keep it safe
- Feed your baby before going, and carry a snack or water for older children
- Stay calm and comfort your child during the injection, because children pick up on your feelings
- Wait at the clinic for about 15 to 20 minutes after vaccination
- Note the date of the next dose before you leave
Vaccination at Dr. Prathyusha’s clinic
Dr. Prathyusha provides vaccination guidance for newborns and children, helps you plan the schedule and reminds you about due dates, so no dose is missed. Bring your child’s vaccination card at the next visit and ask for a personalised schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are vaccines safe for babies?
Yes. Vaccines go through rigorous testing and monitoring. Mild side effects are common, while serious reactions are very rare.
Is it okay to give paracetamol before the vaccine?
Preventive paracetamol is not routinely recommended for all children. Follow your pediatrician’s advice.
Can I give vaccines at different clinics?
Yes, but keep a single vaccination card and share it with each doctor so records stay complete.
Do older children also need booster vaccines?
Yes. Several boosters are given at 4 to 6 years and later in childhood and adolescence.