Giving Your Baby’s First Shots: All You Need to Know About It

Babies usually make their first visit to the hospital by the age of two months. Even if your baby appears healthy, it is important for you to make an appointment for a routine checkup. Visits to the doctor are also necessary to protect the babies from several infectious diseases by using vaccine suitable for their age.

By the age of two months, children are typically given vaccines for the following:

• DPT/POLIO/HIB (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Haemophilus Influenzae type B)


• Hepatitis B


• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)


• Varicella


• Pneumococcal conjugate

In addition, some babies may receive Vitamin K shots to protect them from rare bleeding disorders.

Some important tips for parents:

• Ask the doctor or health professional for more information on the disease prevention, schedules, and the mandatory vaccines.
  
  


• Regular vaccinations suitable for your baby’s age are important. Stick to the schedule prescribed by your doctor.
  
  


• Do not miss a dose. Even if you start late or miss a dose, speak to the doctor about the right time to administer a vaccine.
  
  


• After immunization, babies may experience redness, soreness, fever, or swelling at the injection site, which is no cause for worry. Keeping a cool cloth on the affected site will help to reduce the reaction.
  
  


• In rare cases, some children tend to develop allergic reactions such as high fever or loss of consciousness. Consult your doctor immediately.
  
  


• Contact your doctor, if your child develops a fever. Your doctor may prescribe medication to make the child feel comfortable.