Vaccines play a vital role in protecting children from preventable diseases, ensuring they stay fit and healthy as they grow. Understanding when your child needs to get vaccinated is crucial for staying up to date with the immunization schedule.
This article on ‘When does my Child need to get a Vaccine?‘ outlines the key stages in a child’s life when vaccines are necessary and why they are important.
Why Are Vaccinations Important?
Vaccinations help boost a child’s immune system by introducing a weakened form of a virus or bacteria, prompting the body to produce antibodies without causing illness. This process helps protect your child against serious diseases like measles, polio and cough.
Moreover, timely vaccinations not only safeguard your child but also contribute to the concept of herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.
Birth to 6 Months
From the moment your baby is born, vaccines become an essential part of their healthcare. The first vaccine, Hepatitis B, is typically administered at birth. This vaccine protects your child against Hepatitis B. Between birth and 6 months, your baby will receive several key vaccines in multiple doses. These include:
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- Polio
- Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b)
- PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate)
- Rotavirus
These vaccines are typically given during baby visits, usually every 2 months during the first 6 months. It is important to stick to this schedule as it helps to build strong immunity against deadly diseases.
6 to 18 Months
As your baby grows into a toddler, he/she will continue to receive important vaccines to ensure their immunity stays strong. During this stage, your child will complete the series of vaccines they started during infancy and also receive additional ones. These include:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A
Some of these vaccines require booster doses to ensure long-term immunity. Additionally, the annual flu vaccine becomes essential around 6 months of age and should be administered every year during flu season to protect your child from influenza.
4 to 6 Years
Before starting school, your child will need to receive additional booster doses for many vaccines. These include:
- DTaP booster
- Polio booster
- MMR booster
- Varicella booster
These boosters help strengthen the immunity built up during the early years. This ensures your child remains protected as they enter school where exposure to various germs and diseases increases.
Vaccine for 10-Year-Olds in India
Here are the main vaccines you should check for or consider around age 10:
1. Td Booster (Tetanus + Diphtheria)
- Purpose: Retain immunity against tetanus (from wounds, cuts) and diphtheria (rare but serious).
- Why at age 10: After the early childhood doses, a booster at about 10 helps maintain protection into adolescence.
- Action: Ask your paediatrician if the child has received this; if not, it should be scheduled.
2. HPV Vaccine (Human Papilloma Virus)
- Purpose: Prevents infections by HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer (in girls) and other HPV-related diseases.
- Age group: In India, many sources recommend starting between 9–14 years for girls, and increasingly for boys too (though this is less universally implemented).
- Consideration: This vaccine may not yet be fully covered under the free national programme everywhere, so it may be obtained privately. It’s worth discussing with your doctor.
3. Typhoid Booster / Other Optional Vaccines
- Typhoid: In some immunisation guidance, a typhoid vaccine or booster may be considered in older children, especially in areas with a higher risk of typhoid transmission.
- Influenza, Varicella (chicken-pox), Hepatitis A, etc: These are optional in many cases and may depend on your child’s prior vaccination status, exposure risk, region, school requirement, etc.
Teen Years
As your child enters adolescence, several vaccines are recommended to protect them from diseases that are more common during this stage of life:
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): This vaccine protects against certain types of HPV that can cause cancers later in life. It is recommended for both boys and girls typically around the ages of 11 to 12.
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): This booster shot is given around 11 to 12 years of age as the protection from the DTaP vaccine begins to wear off.
- Meningococcal: This vaccine is recommended for pre-teens with a booster shot in the teen years.
Why is it Important to Stay on Schedule?
Following the recommended vaccination schedule ensures that your child receives the right vaccines at the right time. Missing or delaying vaccines can leave your child vulnerable to diseases that could be easily prevented. Pediatricians often remind parents of upcoming vaccines during regular check-ups, so it is important to keep those appointments.
Conclusion
Vaccines are an essential part of your child’s healthcare journey. By understanding when your child needs to get vaccinated and following the recommended immunization schedule, you can ensure that they stay healthy and well-protected.
Always consult with a pediatrician to keep track of upcoming vaccines and ask any questions you might have about the process. Vaccinating your child is a simple and effective way to support their long-term health and the well-being of the community.
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FAQs
How do I know which vaccines my child needs at each age?
Each child follows a recommended immunization schedule provided by pediatric health authorities in India. It outlines which vaccines should be given at specific ages — from birth through adolescence. You can check this schedule in your child’s vaccination card or consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance.
What happens if my child misses a scheduled vaccine?
If your child misses a vaccine, don’t worry — most vaccines can be given through a catch-up schedule. Visit your pediatrician as soon as possible to adjust the timeline and ensure your child stays protected.
Are vaccines safe for infants and children?
Yes. All vaccines used in India are approved by the Ministry of Health and WHO for safety and effectiveness. Some children may experience mild side effects such as soreness or mild fever, which usually subside quickly.
Why are booster doses necessary?
Booster doses help reinforce immunity that may decrease over time. They ensure long-term protection against diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and polio, keeping your child’s immune system strong throughout growth.
Can I delay my child’s vaccination?
It’s best not to delay vaccinations unless advised by your doctor. Delays can leave your child vulnerable to preventable diseases. If your child is unwell, your pediatrician can help decide the safest time to resume vaccination.
