Guide to Vaccination In Children
Learn everything about child vaccination, including the recommended schedule in India, safety facts, common myths, and practical tips to make vaccination easier and stress-free for parents and children.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 17th Sep, 2025
Introduction
As a parent, your child's health is your top priority. Navigating the world of childhood vaccination can feel overwhelming, filled with complex schedules and mixed messages. But at its core, immunisation is one of the most powerful and proven tools we have to protect our children from serious, preventable diseases. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering a clear, comprehensive, and compassionate look at everything you need to know about vaccinating your child. We'll walk you through the recommended schedule, explain the science behind the shots, address common safety concerns, and provide practical tips to make vaccination day easier for both you and your little one. Think of this as your trusted handbook for making informed decisions that will safeguard your child's health for years to come.
Why Vaccinating Your Child is a Crucial Step
Vaccination is more than just an item on a paediatrician's checklist; it's a fundamental part of preventive healthcare. Before the widespread use of vaccines, diseases like polio, measles, and whooping cough (pertussis) were common and often led to severe complications, lifelong disability, or even death. Vaccines have dramatically reduced, and in some cases eradicated, these threats. Choosing to vaccinate is a proactive step that shields your child from these preventable suffering and allows them to grow up in a safer world.
How Vaccines Work: Building a Defense System
A vaccine introduces a harmless version of a germ—either a weakened virus, a dead virus, or just a piece of the germ (like a protein)—into the body. This doesn't cause the disease, but it does trigger your child's immune system to produce antibodies, which are special soldiers designed to fight that specific invader. These antibodies remain in the body, creating a "memory" of the germ. If the real, active germ ever tries to infect your child in the future, their immune system recognises it immediately and can mount a powerful, rapid defense to prevent illness altogether or make it much milder.
The Power of Herd Immunity: Protecting the Community
Herd immunity occurs when a high percentage of a community is immunised, providing indirect protection to those who are not vaccinated. This includes newborns who are too young for certain shots, individuals with compromised immune systems (like those undergoing chemotherapy), or those with severe allergies to vaccine components. By vaccinating your healthy child, you are not only protecting them but also forming a protective shield around the most vulnerable members of your community, breaking the chain of infection.
Consult a Paediatrician for the best advice
The Complete Child Immunisation Schedule in India
The immunisation schedule in India is meticulously designed by the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) to provide protection when children are most vulnerable to specific diseases. It's crucial to follow this timeline for optimal effectiveness.
Vaccines at Birth: The First Line of Defense
Right after birth, a baby's first vaccines are administered:
- BCG: Given as a shot, usually on the upper arm, to protect against severe forms of tuberculosis.
- Hepatitis B (Hep-B1): The first dose to protect against the hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver damage.
- Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV-0): The first of many doses to protect against polio.
The 6-Week, 10-Week, 14-Week Package: A Critical Period
This is a busy period where several key vaccines are given:
- OPV-1, 2, 3 & IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine): Together, they provide comprehensive protection against polio.
- DTaP-1, 2, 3: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (Whooping Cough).
- Hib-1, 2, 3: Prevents Haemophilus influenzae type b, a cause of meningitis.
- PCV-1, 2, 3: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine prevents pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections.
- Rotavirus-1, 2, 3: An oral vaccine that protects against severe, dehydrating diarrhea.
- Hepatitis B-2, 3: Completes the series.
Important Boosters at 9-12 Months and 15-18 Months
Boosters are essential to "boost" the immune system's memory for long-lasting protection.
- At 9-12 months: MMR-1 (measles, mumps, rubella) is given.
- At 15-18 months: Boosters for MMR-2, DTaP, Hib, and PCV are administered.
Pre-School and School-Age Vaccinations
Protection continues into childhood with:
- OPV Booster and DTaP Booster between 4-6 years.
- Tdap/Td (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) booster around 10-12 years.
- HPV Vaccine: Recommended for both girls and boys around 9-14 years to prevent cancers caused by the human papillomavirus.
Understanding Common Vaccines and the Diseases They Prevent
Knowing what each vaccine fights can help you appreciate their importance.
The MMR Vaccine: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
- Measles can lead to high fever, rash, and serious complications like pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling).
- Mumps causes painful swelling of the salivary glands and can lead to meningitis.
- Rubella (German Measles) is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause severe birth defects.
The DTaP Vaccine: Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis
- Diphtheria causes a thick covering in the back of the throat, leading to breathing problems and heart failure.
- Tetanus (Lockjaw) causes painful muscle stiffness and can be fatal.
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough) causes severe, uncontrollable coughing fits that make it hard for infants to breathe, eat, or drink.
Vaccine Safety and Common Side Effects
Vaccines are among the most rigorously tested medical products. They undergo years of testing for safety and
effectiveness before approval and are continuously monitored.
What to Expect After a Shot: Normal Reactions
Most side effects are mild and temporary, a sign the body is building protection. These include:
- Redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site.
- Low-grade fever.
- Fussiness or irritability.
- Tiredness or loss of appetite.
Rare Side Effects and When to Call a Doctor
Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare (less than 1 in a million doses). Consult a doctor online with Apollo24|7 immediately if your child has a high fever (over 104°F), convulsions, non-stop crying for over 3 hours, or signs of a severe allergic reaction like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, or a rapid heartbeat.
Addressing Common Concerns and Myths About Vaccination
Myth: "Vaccines cause autism."
Fact: This claim originated from a single, fraudulent study that has been thoroughly debunked and retracted. Numerous large-scale studies involving millions of children have found no link between any vaccine and the development of autism.
Myth: "It's better to get natural immunity from the disease than from a vaccine."
Fact: The price of natural immunity can be devastating. A measles infection can lead to pneumonia or encephalitis; polio can cause permanent paralysis. Vaccines provide a safe way to develop immunity without the risks of the actual disease.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Vaccination Day
Before the Appointment: How to Prepare
- Bring your child's vaccination record card.
- Dress them in loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to their thighs or arms.
- If your child is older, talk to them calmly about what will happen.
During the Shot: Comforting Your Child
- Hold your child securely on your lap and make eye contact.
- Distract them with a toy, song, or story.
- Stay calm; your child can sense your anxiety.
Aftercare: Soothing Your Baby at Home
- Offer plenty of fluids and extra cuddles.
- A cool, damp cloth can help with soreness at the injection site.
- For fever or discomfort, ask your paediatrician about giving an appropriate dose of paracetamol. Always consult your doctor before giving any medication to an infant.
Conclusion
The decision to vaccinate your child is one of the most significant and loving choices you can make as a parent. It is a choice backed by decades of robust scientific research and overwhelming medical consensus. By following the recommended schedule, you are providing them with a shield against numerous dangerous diseases, ensuring they have the healthy start they deserve. While it's natural to have questions, especially with the abundance of information online, always turn to trusted sources like your child's paediatrician for guidance. If you're unsure about your child's vaccination status or have missed a shot, don't panic. Consult a doctor online with Apollo24|7 to create a simple catch-up schedule and get back on track. Your proactive steps today will help your child thrive tomorrow.
Consult a Paediatrician for the best advice
Consult a Paediatrician for the best advice
Dr Yaja Jebaying
Paediatric Gastroenterologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD PEDIATRICS, FELLOWSHIP PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY AND LIVER TRANSPLANTATION
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Ch. Sanyasi Naidu
Paediatrician
8 Years • Dch DNB 1. MBBS (Andhra Medical college, Visakhapatnam) 2. Dch (Kasturba medical college, manipal) 3. DNB (National board of examination, New Delhi.
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Viswateja Chitturi
Paediatrician
11 Years • MD, FNB(PICU). FNB Pediatric Critical Care- November 2020 Dr.Mehtas multi-specilaity hospitals pvt.limited, Chennai National Board of Examinations, New Delhi. M.D.(Pediatrics)-July 2016 NRI Medical College, Guntur, NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada. MBBS - March 2011 GSL Medical College, Rajahmundry. NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada.
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Rajesh Jha
Paediatrician
10 Years • M.B.B.S., D.N.B.(Pediatrics)
Noida
Apollo Hospitals Sector 26, Noida
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Deepa Passi
Paediatrician
29 Years • MBBS, MD
Noida
Apollo Hospitals Sector 26, Noida
(50+ Patients)
Consult a Paediatrician for the best advice
Dr Yaja Jebaying
Paediatric Gastroenterologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD PEDIATRICS, FELLOWSHIP PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY AND LIVER TRANSPLANTATION
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Ch. Sanyasi Naidu
Paediatrician
8 Years • Dch DNB 1. MBBS (Andhra Medical college, Visakhapatnam) 2. Dch (Kasturba medical college, manipal) 3. DNB (National board of examination, New Delhi.
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Viswateja Chitturi
Paediatrician
11 Years • MD, FNB(PICU). FNB Pediatric Critical Care- November 2020 Dr.Mehtas multi-specilaity hospitals pvt.limited, Chennai National Board of Examinations, New Delhi. M.D.(Pediatrics)-July 2016 NRI Medical College, Guntur, NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada. MBBS - March 2011 GSL Medical College, Rajahmundry. NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada.
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Rajesh Jha
Paediatrician
10 Years • M.B.B.S., D.N.B.(Pediatrics)
Noida
Apollo Hospitals Sector 26, Noida
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Deepa Passi
Paediatrician
29 Years • MBBS, MD
Noida
Apollo Hospitals Sector 26, Noida
(50+ Patients)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if I miss a scheduled vaccine for my child?
It's never too late to get back on track. Contact your paediatrician to create a catch-up schedule. The missed vaccine can usually be given at your next visit without restarting the entire series.
2. Can my child get vaccinated if they have a mild cold or fever?
Yes, generally, a mild illness like a low-grade fever, cold, runny nose, or cough is not a reason to delay vaccination. However, if your child is moderately to severely ill, your doctor may advise waiting until they feel better.
3. Are there any alternatives to the injection-based vaccines?
A few vaccines are available in alternative forms. The rotavirus vaccine is oral, and the flu vaccine can be given as a nasal spray for eligible children. However, most vaccines require injection to be effective.
4. How do I manage fever and pain after vaccination?
You can use a cool cloth on the injection site for soreness. For fever or significant discomfort, your doctor may recommend an appropriate weight-based dose of paracetamol. Ensure they drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
5. Are combination vaccines (like Pentavalent) safe for my baby?
Yes, combination vaccines are extensively tested and safe. They reduce the number of shots needed, which means less discomfort for your child and fewer visits to the clinic, while providing the same effective protection as individual shots.