One of the important parts of your baby's health and well being is ensuring he or she receives the proper childhood vaccinations at the proper time. Some parents have strong feelings about vaccinations, however, fearing they are a health risk to their baby. Most experts agree (and a great deal of research supports) that the risks associated with vaccinations are extremely small in comparison to the risks associated with the illnesses and diseases they protect against.
Which vaccinations are recommended?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a comprehensive schedule of vaccinations, designed to provide the broadest range of protection possible for your child. These recommendations include the following:
DTaP - This is the diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis vaccination that is usually given as a five separate injections. The usual ages at which the injections are given are 2 months; 4 months; 6 months; 15 to 18 months; and 4 to 6 years of age. A booster shot is often given around 11 or 12 years of age, with a tetanus booster given every 10 years after that.
Hepatitis B - This vaccination gives long term protection from the very dangerous hepatitis B infection. It is usually given as three separate injections, the first immediately after birth; the second at 1 to 4 months of age; and the third at 6 to 18 months of age.
Hepatitis A - This is a serious disease that can lead to epidemics quite easily, so it is now a recommended vaccination for babies. It is given in two injections, starting at 12 to 23 months of age and another given six months later.
Hib - This vaccination protects against the haemophilus influenza type b bacteria, which can cause serious cases of meningitis in babies and young children. It is given in four separate injections, at 2 months; 4 months; 6 months; and a booster at 12 to 15 months.
Polio - Also called IPV, this vaccination protects against the polio virus. It is given in four injections, at 2 months; 4 months; 6 to 18 months; and at 4 to 6 years of age.
MMR - This is the measles, mumps and rubella vaccination that is given as two injections. The first is given at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second is given as 4 to 6 years of age.
Varicella - This is the chickenpox vaccine, added to the list of recommended vaccinations within the last fifteen years or so. It is given in two injections at 12 to 15 months of age and 4 to 6 years of age. Some research indicates a booster shot may be needed in the late teens or early twenties, but that has not been conclusively determined yet.
Influenza - This is also commonly called the "flu shot", given each year to protect at-risk children and adults against the serious illness that is influenza. It is given annually, usually in two separate injections that are two weeks apart for children nine years of age or younger. A newer delivery method, called the nasal mist vaccine, is available but is not appropriate for all at-risk groups. Ask your doctor which vaccination method is best for your child.
Pneumococcal (PCV) - This is a combined vaccination that protects against serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. It is given in four injections, at 2 months; 4 months; 6 months; and 12 to 15 months of age.
MCV4 - This is a meningitis vaccine that is recommended for older children, teens, and college students. It is generally given at 11 to 12 years of age, with booster shots at 15 years of age and just prior to entering college.
Check with your doctor
There is some room for variation in these recommendations, based on your child's age and other risk factors. Check with your doctor on a regular basis to ensure your baby remains up to date with the most current schedule of recommended vaccinations.