Know The Vaccination Chart For Baby in India

Paediatrics | Posted on 04/20/2022 by Dr. J. P. Dadhich

Overview:

Right from birth, an infant is susceptible to a lot of diseases, viruses, and bacteria. During this period your child’s immune system is still developing which increases the chances of communicable diseases. The increased risk of several medical problems, existing health hazards, and the prevalence of COVID in recent years make it crucial for parents and guardians to vaccinate their babies. 

The data reveals that timely vaccination of babies against tetanus, polio, hepatitis, pneumonia, etc. can prevent approximately 3 million deaths worldwide. Several initiatives and vaccination programs in India are already promoting awareness about immunizations for babies. If you are looking to know about the vaccination schedule for your child, this blog can provide a reference regarding the same. 

Baby vaccination chart 2024

Under the national immunization schedule for 2024, the vaccination chart for babies in India is mentioned below. 

Do’s & Don’t During and After Your Baby’s Vaccination:

Some children can experience mild reactions from the shots. Depending on the age of the child, they may experience a rash, mild fever, or some pain and discomfort after the vaccination. Therefore, it is important to know how to identify and minimize the side effects after the injection. Here are Do’s and dont's that can help you during and after your baby’s vaccination -

Do’s

• Carry your child’s health card with you.
• Make your baby wear comfortable clothes which are easy to remove. Please note that babies under 12 months get shots in the thighs. 
• Toddlers and older children can wear short sleeves or if your daughter is a bit fashion frenzy, off shoulder top is an amazing choice since older children usually have their injections in the arm.
• Your baby may experience pain during the vaccination. You can distract them by making sounds and cuddling or singing softly.
• If your infant misses an injection for their age, talk to the doctor to know how soon it is possible to have another appointment. 
• Hold the child on the knees during the injection.
• If your child develops a high temperature, make give them plenty of water to drink
• Give your child liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce the temperature

Don't

• Do not give aspirin to children under 16 years unless prescribed by the doctor
• In case of a fever, make sure your child does not wear too many layers of clothes
• Do not skip any vaccination and follow the schedule. 
• Do not get any advanced vaccination
• Do not rush for your child’s appointment and give them plenty of time to avoid feeling stressed 

Conclusion:

Immunization is a necessary health intervention for infants, newborns, and adolescent kids. Vaccines are very effective in managing specific diseases in newborns and older kids. To eradicate some harmful diseases, the government organizes several campaigns by setting up free vaccination centers across the country. 

However, even then, the population of children who do not receive the vaccination is still very high. According to World Health Organization, over 22 million children do not receive proper and complete vaccinations. This creates a need for awareness to ensure every child is vaccinated before the age of 5. It is your responsibility as a parent and as a guardian to get your child vaccinated to ensure a better quality of life.

FAQs:

 

How to treat baby fever after vaccination?

In case your infant develops a high fever after the vaccination, make sure they are drinking plenty of water. You can also give liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen to bring down their temperature. Also, make sure they are not wearing too many layers of clothes or blankets.

Is it safe to give a bath to the baby after vaccination?

Yes, you can give a bath to the baby after the vaccination as usual. However, in case the area of injection is red and warm to the touch, you can use a cool wet towel around the site. Refrain from using an ice pack and wrapping the baby in too many blankets or clothes after the vaccination.

What is the first vaccine given to a baby?

All infants must get the first shot of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours after birth. The injection reduces the risk of infection from family members who may be unaware that they are infected with hepatitis B. 

How to take care of a baby after vaccination?

What are some vaccinations recommended for children exposed to high-risk areas?

Can I feed my baby before and after the vaccination?

Yes, breastfeeding before and after the vaccination can help reduce the pain in most babies up to the age of 1 year. Most children feel tired after the vaccination and eat very little. Therefore, feeding the child before the vaccine is usually advisable. 

How many vaccines are given to babies in India?

There are 12 different vaccines for newborns which come under India’s universal immunization program. These vaccines are provided free of cost at government hospitals. Contact us to know more about the national immunization schedule for 2024.