Why Baby Vaccinations Matter: Key Schedule for New Parents

Hello, I’m Dr. Mehta, and as a paediatrician, I want to talk about something close to my heart—vaccinations for your baby. These tiny but powerful steps are some of the best ways to protect your little one from serious and life-threatening illnesses like polio, diphtheria and whooping cough.

FFrom the moment your baby is born, vaccines work like tiny shields, helping their immune system fight off dangerous diseases. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a big difference!

As new parents, navigating the vaccination schedule can feel a bit confusing. But remember, every shot is a step toward giving your baby the strongest start. Together, we’ll ensure your baby is protected at the right time as they grow.

So, let’s discuss the key vaccines when your baby needs them and how they keep your little one safe and thriving.

IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE

Vaccinations are timed perfectly to match your baby’s developing immune system, offering protection at the right age. Based on years of medical research, the schedule starts early—beginning at birth—and continues at 2, 4, and 6 months to build strong, layered immunity.

Each dose is an important step in keeping your little one safe. Missing even one can leave gaps in their protection, making them more vulnerable. By staying on track with vaccinations, you ensure your baby has a consistent and reliable defence against serious illnesses.

Vaccines Administered at Birth

I always suggest that Vaccines administered at birth are crucial for safeguarding newborns against serious diseases. The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically the first, recommended within 24 hours of birth to protect against liver infection. Additionally, the BCG vaccine is administered to prevent tuberculosis, especially in areas where the disease is prevalent. These early vaccinations lay the foundation for a child's immune system, helping to prevent outbreaks of diseases that once caused significant illness and mortality in children.

The 2-Month Vaccination Milestone

At 2 months, your baby receives essential vaccines protecting against serious diseases like whooping cough, polio, and pneumococcal infections. Some of these vaccines are also required for international travel, ensuring your baby stays safe wherever you go.

Mild effects like fussiness or a slight fever are common but temporary. These vaccinations provide crucial, long-term protection, allowing your baby to grow, explore, and travel safely.

Vaccines Given at 4 Months

The 4-month vaccinations such as DTaP, PCV and Rotavirus are an important follow-up to the 2-month doses. These shots reinforce the protection your baby received earlier, making sure their immune system is fully equipped to fight off serious diseases.

They’re crucial for ensuring your baby’s immunity is strong and lasting. Diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough are far more dangerous than any vaccine side effects your baby might experience.

The 6-Month Vaccination Visit

If your baby has missed any vaccinations, don’t worry—catch-up doses are available! At the 6-month visit, your baby will typically receive vaccines for whooping cough, tetanus, diphtheria, and polio.

If your baby has already started the rotavirus vaccine series, they may also get a follow-up dose at this time. Keeping up with the schedule ensures your baby receives the full protection they need, so it's important to check in with your paediatrician to stay on track.

Immunisations at 9 Months

At 9 months, your baby may receive additional vaccinations to strengthen their immunity further. One key vaccine at this stage is the measles vaccine, which is especially important in regions where measles is more common.

Your paediatrician will review your baby’s vaccination record to ensure they receive all necessary doses. If any vaccines were missed, this is the time to catch up. Completing these steps supports your baby’s overall health and prepares them for the next round of important vaccines at 12 months.

The 12-Month Vaccination Checkpoint

At 12 months, your baby will receive some of the most crucial vaccines in the schedule. This includes the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which protects against these serious diseases, and the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

Additionally, your baby will receive the first dose of the hepatitis A vaccine, offering protection against this liver infection. These vaccines are essential for building your baby’s immunity and ensuring they are well-protected as they grow.

As a paediatrician, I cannot stress enough the importance of timely and complete vaccination for your baby. Following the recommended immunisation schedule ensures your baby develops immunity at the right time, offering them the best protection. Delays or missed doses can leave gaps in immunity, increasing the risk of illness. If you have concerns or questions, I encourage you to discuss them with your doctor. Together, we can ensure your baby’s health and give them a strong foundation for a healthy future.