Keeping your little one healthy is a top priority, and vaccinations play a crucial role in that. (No, we’re not taking advice from Jenny McCarthy here!) The American Academy of Pediatrics, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has established a timeline for when your baby should receive their vaccines. If your child has specific health concerns or a history of allergic reactions, consult your pediatrician about possibly adjusting the vaccination schedule to best suit your child’s needs.
So, why do all those pediatrician visits involve tears? Let’s break down the most recent vaccination schedule from the AAP (as of January 2014):
Hepatitis B Vaccine (HepB)
Why is it needed? Hepatitis B is a virus that can lead to severe liver issues, including cirrhosis and even death.
When to get it? The first dose is given within the first week after birth, often before you leave the hospital. The second dose should be administered between 1 and 2 months, and the third around 6 months.
Side effects? Temporary soreness at the injection site and fussiness are common.
Rotavirus Vaccine (RV)
Why is it needed? Rotavirus causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in young children. This vaccine is given orally, making it a bit easier on the little ones!
When to get it? The first dose is at 2 months, the second at 4 months, and possibly a third at 6 months, depending on the brand.
Side effects? Mild diarrhea and fussiness can occur.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccine (DTaP)
Why is it needed? This combo vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and whooping cough, all of which can be life-threatening.
When to get it? Your baby will need 5 doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months, then again between 15-18 months, and finally between 4-6 years.
Side effects? Common reactions include tenderness, swelling, fever, and a general sense of crankiness. But don’t worry, these usually pass quickly!
Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Conjugate Vaccine (Hib)
Why is it needed? This vaccine protects against serious infections like meningitis and pneumonia caused by Hib bacteria.
When to get it? Your child will receive 4 doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months, with the last dose between 12-15 months.
Side effects? Possible fever, tenderness, and fussiness are typical.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)
Why is it needed? It guards against pneumococcus bacteria, which can lead to serious conditions like pneumonia and meningitis.
When to get it? The schedule includes 4 doses: at 2, 4, 6 months, and a final dose between 12-15 months.
Side effects? Expect some mild fever and tenderness.
Inactivated Polio Virus Vaccine (IPV)
Why is it needed? This vaccine protects against polio, a virus that can cause paralysis and other severe complications.
When to get it? Your child will need 4 doses: at 2, 4, and between 6-18 months, and the final dose between 4-6 years.
Side effects? Soreness or redness where the shot was given might occur.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (MMR)
Why is it needed? This vaccine defends against three highly contagious diseases that can have serious health consequences.
When to get it? Typically, your child will receive 2 doses: the first between 12-15 months, and the second between 4-6 years.
Side effects? Mild fever, rash, and joint aches are common, and there’s a chance of swelling in the cheek and neck glands.
Varicella Vaccine (Chicken Pox)
Why is it needed? Chicken pox is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications. This vaccine doesn’t always prevent chicken pox, but it can lessen its severity.
When to get it? Two doses are scheduled: the first between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years.
Side effects? Common reactions include soreness, mild fever, and possibly a rash.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Why is it needed? Hepatitis A causes liver inflammation, and symptoms can often be unnoticed in kids.
When to get it? Your child will receive 2 doses: the first between 12-23 months, and the second 6-18 months later.
Side effects? Look out for soreness at the injection site, headache, or loss of appetite.
Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine, Quadrivalent (MCV4)
Why is it needed? This vaccine protects against meningococcal diseases that can lead to severe infections.
When to get it? Recommended for high-risk children, this vaccine is given in 4 doses: the first two between 9-23 months, the third at 11-12 years, and the fourth around 16.
Side effects? Common effects include soreness at the injection site and a light fever.
While vaccinations can be a tough experience for both babies and parents, they are essential for long-term health. Plus, your little one won’t remember a thing! For more info on parenting and home insemination, check out this excellent resource or learn about the BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit.
And if you’re curious about how we handle your data, feel free to read our privacy policy.
Summary
Keeping your baby healthy through vaccinations is crucial. The AAP provides a detailed schedule of recommended vaccines, including Hepatitis B, Rotavirus, DTaP, Hib, PCV13, IPV, MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis A, and MCV4. While these vaccinations may be stressful, they significantly reduce the risk of severe illnesses.