Baby Vaccination Schedule: What to Expect from Birth to 12 Months
Vaccinations are one of the most important things you can do to protect your baby. Here's exactly which vaccines are recommended and when, with tips on managing post-shot reactions.
Why Vaccines Matter in the First Year
Babies are born with some immunity passed from their mothers, but it fades quickly. Vaccines train the immune system to fight specific diseases before your baby is exposed to them. The first year of life is one of the most vulnerable periods, so the vaccination schedule is front-loaded with protection.
The Recommended Schedule (Birth to 12 Months)
- Birth: Hepatitis B (dose 1)
- 2 months: DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV15, RV, Hepatitis B (dose 2)
- 4 months: DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV15, RV
- 6 months: DTaP, Hib, PCV15, RV, Hepatitis B (dose 3), Influenza (yearly)
- 12 months: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis A (dose 1), PCV15 booster
This schedule is set by the CDC and AAP based on when babies' immune systems are ready and when diseases pose the greatest risk.
Common Reactions and How to Manage Them
Mild reactions are normal and a sign the immune system is responding. These include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, and fussiness. You can apply a cool, damp cloth to the injection site and ask your doctor about appropriate doses of infant acetaminophen for fever or discomfort.
Serious Reactions: When to Call the Doctor
- High fever above 104°F (40°C)
- Non-stop crying for more than 3 hours
- Seizures or convulsions
- Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Hives, swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing (seek emergency care immediately)
Addressing Common Concerns
Vaccine safety is among the most thoroughly researched topics in medicine. Decades of data from hundreds of millions of children confirm that the recommended vaccines are safe and effective. Delaying or skipping vaccines leaves your baby unprotected during the period of highest risk.