Vaccination Schedule for Babies: A Guide for Mothers
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect babies from serious illnesses and diseases that can be life-threatening. They work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies, which provide immunity against specific infections.
Here is a comprehensive vaccination schedule that every mother should be aware of
Birth to 6 weeks
1. BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin): Protects against tuberculosis.
2. Hepatitis B: Prevents liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus.
6 weeks to 10 weeks
1. OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine): Guards against polio, a highly infectious viral disease.
2. DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis): Protects against diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough).
3. Hepatitis B: A follow-up dose for continued immunity.
10 weeks to 14 weeks
1. OPV: Second dose to reinforce polio immunity.
2. DTP: Second dose to strengthen protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
3. Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B): Guards against Hib infections which can cause meningitis and pneumonia.
4. Rotavirus: Protects against severe diarrhea caused by rotavirus.
9 months to 12 months
1. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Provides immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.
2. Varicella: Guards against chickenpox.
15 months to 18 months
1. OPV: Third dose to ensure complete polio protection.
2. DTP: Third dose to maintain immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
3. Hepatitis A: Prevents liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus.
16 months to 18 months
1. MMR: Second dose to reinforce immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.
2. Varicella: Second dose to strengthen protection against chickenpox.
18 months to 24 months
1. Typhoid: Guards against typhoid fever.
2. Hib: Booster dose for continued protection against Haemophilus influenzae type B.
5 years
1. DTP: Booster dose to enhance immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
2. OPV: Booster dose to reinforce polio immunity.
General Recommendations
Follow the schedule: Vaccines are scheduled at specific ages to ensure maximum effectiveness. Missing or delaying doses can leave your child vulnerable to serious diseases. Consult your pediatrician: Always discuss any concerns or questions you have about vaccines with your child’s doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your child’s health and medical history.
Keep records: Maintain a vaccination card or record provided by your pediatrician. This will help you keep track of which vaccines your child has received and when they are due for their next dose.
Stay informed: Stay updated on any changes to the vaccination schedule or new vaccines recommended by health authorities.
By adhering to this vaccination schedule and understanding the importance of each vaccine, you are taking a proactive step in safeguarding your child’s health and ensuring a healthier future. Remember, prevention through vaccination is key to protecting your child from preventable diseases.
