Why Vaccination Matters
Vaccination is one of the most effective public health interventions available. It protects children against serious and potentially life-threatening infectious diseases by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies before natural exposure to the pathogen. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) publishes a comprehensive immunisation schedule that is regularly updated based on current evidence and disease epidemiology in India.
IAP Immunisation Schedule — Key Vaccines
At Birth
Three vaccines are administered at birth: BCG (tuberculosis protection), OPV-0 (oral polio — zero dose) and Hepatitis B birth dose. These provide early protection against diseases that newborns are particularly vulnerable to.
6 Weeks to 14 Weeks
This period involves the primary series of several critical vaccines administered at 6, 10 and 14 weeks of age. These include DTwP or DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), IPV (injectable polio vaccine), Hepatitis B (second and third doses), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and Rotavirus vaccine. These vaccines are often available as combination vaccines, reducing the total number of injections.
6 to 12 Months
The third dose of Hepatitis B, influenza vaccine (first dose from 6 months), and the first dose of Typhoid conjugate vaccine are given during this period.
9 to 15 Months
MMR-1 (measles, mumps, rubella) is administered at 9 months. The first dose of Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine and Hepatitis A vaccine are given at 12–15 months. PCV and Hib boosters are also due.
16 to 18 Months
The first booster of DTwP/DTaP and IPV is administered. The second dose of Hepatitis A is also given during this period.
2 to 5 Years
The second dose of MMR and Varicella are given between 4–6 years. Annual influenza vaccination continues.
10 to 16 Years
Tdap booster (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) is recommended at 10–12 years. HPV vaccine (two or three doses) is recommended for both girls and boys from 9 years of age for cervical and other HPV-related cancer prevention.
Optional Vaccines
In addition to the routine schedule, several optional vaccines are available including Meningococcal vaccine, Japanese Encephalitis vaccine (recommended in endemic areas), Cholera vaccine and travel-related vaccinations. Your paediatrician can advise on which optional vaccines are appropriate based on your child's health, travel plans and local disease patterns.
Maintaining Vaccination Records
Keeping an up-to-date vaccination card is essential. It serves as a record of immunisations received, helps track upcoming doses and is required for school admission. At Mother Hub Clinic, we maintain vaccination records and provide timely reminders for upcoming doses.