Vaccination Chart for Babies in India: Complete Immunization Guide for Parents

Childhood is a precious phase of growth and development, but it also brings vulnerability to illnesses due to an underdeveloped immune system. In India, the National Immunization Schedule (NIS) provides a standard vaccination chart for babies and children from birth to 18 years. Following this schedule is essential to protect your child against life-threatening diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, measles, diphtheria, and more.

Let’s dive into the age-wise vaccination schedule for babies in India and understand the importance of each vaccine for long-term child health.

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What is the National Immunization Schedule?

The National Immunization Schedule (NIS) is an initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It outlines mandatory vaccines that should be administered at specific ages to children to ensure they are protected from deadly diseases. It includes the vaccine name, diseases covered, mode of administration, and appropriate age of delivery.

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🍼 Vaccination Schedule for Babies in India (Age-Wise)

At Birth

• BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) – Prevents tuberculosis. Injected into the skin of the left forearm.

• Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV-0) – First oral dose.

• Hepatitis B (Birth dose) – Prevents liver infection. Given intramuscularly in the thigh.

6 Weeks (1.5 Months)

• Pentavalent Vaccine 1st Dose – Protects against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b.

• Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV-1)

• Rotavirus Vaccine – Prevents viral diarrhea (State-specific).

10 Weeks

• Pentavalent Vaccine 2nd Dose

• IPV-2

• Rotavirus Vaccine (2nd dose)

14 Weeks

• Pentavalent Vaccine 3rd Dose

• IPV-3

• Rotavirus Vaccine (3rd dose)

9–12 Months

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR-1)

• Japanese Encephalitis (JE-1) – Region-specific.

• Vitamin A (1st dose, oral)

16–24 Months

• DPT Booster 1 – Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus.

• OPV Booster

• MMR 2nd Dose

• JE Booster – For endemic areas.

• Vitamin A Booster (2nd dose)

2–5 Years

• Vitamin A Supplementation – Every 6 months until 5 years of age.

5–16 Years

• DPT Booster 2

• Tetanus & Diphtheria (TD) at 10 & 16 years.

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🛡️ Why Baby Vaccination is Important

• Prevents deadly diseases like TB, Hepatitis, Polio, Measles, and more.

• Builds strong immunity during the most vulnerable years.

• Reduces the risk of outbreaks in the community.

• Some vaccines offer lifelong immunity.

• Mandatory as per Indian Government health regulations.

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❓Top FAQs about Baby Vaccination in India

Q1. What is the first vaccine given to a newborn in India?
A: BCG, OPV-0, and Hepatitis B are the first vaccines given at birth.

Q2. Is vaccination mandatory in India for babies?
A: Yes, vaccines under the National Immunization Schedule are mandatory and government-recommended.

Q3. Can vaccines cause side effects in babies?
A: Minor side effects like swelling or fever are common but temporary. Serious side effects are rare.

Q4. Is Japanese Encephalitis vaccine required for all babies?
A: It’s administered only in JE-endemic areas as per state health guidelines.

Q5. What if a vaccine dose is missed?
A: Consult your pediatrician immediately. Catch-up vaccination schedules are available.

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✅ Conclusion

Vaccinating your child according to the National Immunization Schedule is one of the most effective ways to ensure lifelong health and immunity. While debates exist about natural immunity vs. vaccines, scientific research continues to show the undeniable benefits of timely immunization.

As a parent, your awareness and proactive approach can protect your child from preventable illnesses. Stay informed, stay on schedule, and consult with your pediatrician regularly to give your child a healthy start in life.