Childhood Immunization Schedule

Welcoming a newborn brings immense joy, and with it, a natural desire to ensure their health and well-being. One significant way to support their healthy start is by understanding and following the recommended newborn vaccination schedule.

Vaccinations are an important part of protecting infants from serious illnesses. While the schedule may seem like a lot of information, including immunisations at 6 weeks, 2 months, and beyond, each recommended vaccine plays a vital role in building your baby's immunity.

This guide aims to offer clear information about the newborn immunisation chart. We will explain newborn vaccinations and highlight how adhering to a timely vaccination schedule is beneficial for your child's health and can also be a factor to consider in your health insurance planning.

Why Childhood Immunisation Matters?

Newborn vaccination is one of the most important tools in modern medicine. It helps protect children from more than a dozen potentially serious illnesses. A well-structured newborn vaccination chart ensures your baby’s immune system gets trained to fight off infections before they encounter them in real life.

The diseases prevented through immunisation, like measles, polio, tetanus, and pneumonia, were once widespread and often fatal. Thanks to newborn shots, these illnesses are now rare.

Newborn First Vaccine: What Happens at Birth?

The journey begins right at birth. Within 24 hours of delivery, your baby receives their hepatitis B shot for newborns. This is the first in a series of three shots that protect against hepatitis B, a dangerous liver infection that can cause lifelong complications. In some cases, if the mother is hepatitis B positive, doctors may also administer hepatitis B immune globulin for newborns to provide immediate protection.

BCG vaccine for newborn is another vital immunisation that protects against tuberculosis (TB). While TB may not be common in certain parts of the world, it still poses a risk in developing countries. The BCG vaccine is typically administered at birth or within the first week of life.

List of Newborn Vaccines at Birth:

• Hepatitis B (HepB)
• BCG Vaccine for Newborn
• RSV Antibody (in some cases, seasonal)

6 Week Vaccine for Newborn: The First Major Round

At six weeks, the real schedule begins. This marks the point when your child’s immune system is mature enough to handle multiple newborn vaccinations safely and effectively. Doctors typically administer a combination of vaccines during a single visit, often bundled into fewer injections to reduce discomfort.

Common 6 Week Vaccine For New Born Include:

• DTaP: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• IPV: Inactivated polio vaccine.
• Hib: Guards against Haemophilus influenzae type b.
• PCV: Pneumonia vaccine for newborn, defending against pneumococcal diseases.
• Rotavirus vaccine newborn: Oral drops that protect against severe diarrhoea.
• HepB: The second dose of the hepatitis B shot for newborns, if not already administered.

These 2-month newborn shots are crucial because they come at a time when babies start becoming more social and exposed to new environments. Missing this set increases the risk of exposure to multiple infections.

What’s in the Newborn Vaccination Chart?

Every newborn vaccination chart is a carefully created roadmap designed by pediatric experts and endorsed by the government. It lays out when each newborn shot should be given and how many doses are required. Here’s a simplified newborn immunisation chart to help you visualise:

This newborn shot chart helps parents stay organised. Always cross-check it with your paediatrician, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or was born prematurely.

Does Immunisation Cause Fever?

Yes, mild fever after newborn vaccinations is a common side effect and is usually a sign that the immune system is responding. Most babies may feel irritable or sleepy for a day or two. Parents are often concerned about newborn vaccination fever, but it’s generally harmless and temporary.
Your paediatrician may recommend a fever reducer, such as infant paracetamol, but always consult with them before administering any medicine.

Special Notes on Key Vaccines

1. Tetanus Shot for Newborn

Though part of the DTaP series, tetanus deserves a special mention. Tetanus can be deadly, especially in newborns, if the umbilical cord care is compromised. The tetanus shot for newborn provides life-saving protection and is often given as part of a combination vaccine.

2. Rotavirus Vaccine Newborn

Rotavirus causes severe diarrhoea, leading to dehydration and hospitalisation. The oral rotavirus vaccine for newborn prevents this, and timely dosing is crucial. Delaying past certain age limits could mean your child becomes ineligible to take it.

3. Pneumonia Vaccine Newborn 

This is covered under PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine). It protects against deadly infections, such as meningitis, blood poisoning, and pneumonia. It’s part of the routine 2 month newborn shots and gets boosters later in the schedule.

Why Parents Shouldn’t Delay Immunisations?

Delaying new born vaccinations might seem harmless, but it can leave your child exposed during their most vulnerable months. It’s also important to avoid following unverified schedules found online. Only the official newborn vaccination chart for new born, backed by scientific research, ensures timely protection.
If you do miss a dose due to illness or travel, don’t panic. Your paediatrician will recommend a catch-up plan to help your child get back on track.

Insurance Tip: How Health Insurance Can Help with Vaccination Costs

Vaccinations are part of routine pediatric care, and the associated costs can add up. Some health insurance plans by Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company cover immunisation costs under preventive care. Parents can look into comprehensive family floater plans or specific health insurance plans that include immunisation under outpatient care.

Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers a wide range of family and individual health plans that cover outpatient care, consultation fees, and in some cases, vaccination costs. Always check the policy wordings and inclusions while buying.

FAQs on Childhood Immunization

How many shots does a newborn need in the first year?

In the first year, a newborn typically receives between 15 to 18 vaccine doses. These include both injections and oral drops, depending on the vaccine schedule and whether combination vaccines, such as Vaxelis, are used. This may vary slightly based on the child’s health needs, risk factors, and any catch-up immunisations advised by the paediatrician.

Is vaccination safe for premature babies?

Yes, vaccines are safe and strongly recommended for premature babies. In fact, because they’re more vulnerable to infections, timely immunisation is even more important. The newborn immunisation chart is usually followed based on the baby’s chronological age, though minor adjustments may be made for weight or health conditions, always under the guidance of a pediatric specialist.

What is Vaxelis, and how does it help?

Vaxelis is a combination vaccine that protects against six diseases: DTaP, IPV, Hib, and HepB — in a single shot. It simplifies the immunisation schedule by reducing the number of injections required during critical visits like the 2 month newborn shots, making the experience easier for both babies and parents while ensuring complete protection.

Can I delay the rotavirus vaccine?

Delaying the rotavirus vaccine for newborns is not advisable. It must be given within strict age limits the first dose usually by 15 weeks of age, and the final dose by 8 months. Missing these windows could make your child ineligible and leave them unprotected against severe diarrhoea and dehydration, which rotavirus can cause.

What should I do if my baby gets a fever after shots?

A mild newborn vaccination fever is a common side effect and usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Keep your baby comfortable by dressing them in light clothing and applying a cool compress if needed. If the fever is high or lasts more than two days, consult your paediatrician. They’ll guide you on whether any additional care is necessary.

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The information presented is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice. Any suggestions mentioned should be considered for general use only. For expert guidance on any health ailment or medical issue or any treatment/procedure, please consult a certified medical professional.