080 6801 6801
080 6801 6901
Cardiac Sciences
Bone and Joint
Gastrointestinal Sciences
Neurosciences
Renal Sciences
Maa Kauvery (Women and Child Health)
Robotic Surgery
Accident and Emergency Care
Anaesthesiology
Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement Surgeries)
Arthroscopy
Bariatric Surgery
Cardiology
Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery
Critical Care and ICU
Dermatology
Diabetes and Endocrinology
ENT
Medical Gastroenterology
General Surgery
Hand Surgery
Monday, 28 July, 2025
Vaccines have revolutionized public health, saving millions of lives every year. In a country like India, where infectious diseases remain a concern, following a proper vaccination schedule is one of the most crucial steps in protecting your child from preventable illnesses. Whether you're a new parent or looking to catch up on missed vaccines, this blog will walk you through everything you need to know, from timelines and catch-up plans to managing side effects and addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Why is Vaccination Crucial for Children?
Children, especially infants, are born with immature immune systems. This makes them highly susceptible to infections like tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis, and measles. Childhood vaccinations provide protection during the most vulnerable stages of life and also help prevent disease outbreaks in schools, parks, and communities.
According to India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, routine immunization has helped reduce child mortality significantly over the last two decades. The government’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) covers more than 12 diseases and benefits over 27 million newborns annually. This makes India’s vaccination schedule not only medically important but nationally strategic.
Understanding the Indian Vaccination Schedule
India’s infant vaccine schedule is created based on WHO recommendations and localized public health needs. It starts right from birth and continues into adolescence. The government ensures timely protection through mandatory infant vaccines that target life-threatening diseases in early childhood. Below is a simplified vaccination chart by age, as per the National Immunization Schedule (2025):
Vaccination Chart for Children (India 2025)
| Age | Vaccines Given | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| At Birth | BCG, OPV (0), Hep B-1 | BCG prevents tuberculosis; OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) protects against polio; Hep B fights liver infections. |
| 6 Weeks | DPT-1, IPV-1, Hep B-2, Hib-1, Rotavirus-1, PCV-1 | Protects against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, hepatitis B, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases. |
| 10 Weeks | DPT-2, IPV-2, Hib-2, Rotavirus-2, PCV-2 | Reinforces immunity against previously administered diseases. |
| 14 Weeks | DPT-3, IPV-3, Hib-3, Rotavirus-3, PCV-3 | Third doses provide sustained protection. |
| 6 Months | Hepatitis B-3 | Final dose of Hep B to ensure full immunity. |
| 9 Months | Measles-Rubella-1, JE-1 (in endemic areas) | Measles can be fatal in infants; rubella causes birth defects. |
| 12 Months | Hep A-1 (optional) | Prevents hepatitis A, especially in high-risk areas. |
| 15 Months | M.M.R-2, Varicella-1, PCV Booster | Combats measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, and respiratory infections. |
| 18 Months | DPT Booster-1, Hib Booster, IPV Booster | Important boosters to prolong childhood protection. |
| 5 Years | DPT Booster-2, OPV Booster | Prepares children for school environment exposure. |
| 10 Years | Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria) | Immunity reinforcement at puberty begins. |
| 16 Years | Td Booster | Last adolescent booster before adulthood. |
Did you know? As per NFHS-5 (2020-21), only 76.4% of Indian children aged 12–23 months received all basic vaccinations. Increasing awareness and access is the key to reaching 100%.
Download your free child vaccination chart to track and stay on schedule with immunizations. Download Chart
Why Vaccine Timing and Gaps Matter in Children
How Are Vaccine Intervals Decided?
Each vaccine is given at a specific time for a reason. The schedule is based on the child’s immune development and the timing of natural exposure to pathogens. For instance, 2-month immunizations are timed to offer early protection before most infants begin crawling or socializing.
Skipping doses or modifying the shot schedule disrupts this protection and may leave immunity gaps. The concept is similar to building a wall — if a few bricks are missing or misaligned, the structure weakens.
What Happens if You Delay or Skip Doses for Your Child?
A delayed vaccine schedule may lead to incomplete immunity, increasing vulnerability to infections like pertussis or measles. These diseases can spread rapidly in crèches and playgroups. Skipping vaccines also complicates the vaccine catch up schedule, requiring more visits and assessments.
Unvaccinated children are at higher risk during disease outbreaks and may be barred from schools and public places in some regions.
Missed a Vaccine? Here’s the Catch-Up Plan
Common Reasons for Missed Doses in Children
Parents often miss vaccine appointments due to:
- Child being ill (e.g., high fever in infants)
- Lack of reminders or awareness
- Travel or relocation
- Fear of vaccine side effects
- Misinformation from online sources
Catch-Up Vaccination Schedule
If your child has missed one or more vaccines, don’t panic. Pediatricians follow a structured vaccine catch up-schedule that safely resumes pending doses without restarting the full series. Most missed vaccinations can be caught up within a few months. This includes essential ones like the childhood flu vaccination, which is important during flu season to protect against serious complications in young children.
A qualified pediatrician in Bangalore will guide you through this based on your child’s age and vaccination history.
How to Safely Resume the Schedule
- Check your child’s vaccination card.
- Consult your pediatrician for a customized plan.
- Space out doses as recommended — do not double up.
- Avoid unnecessary repetition unless prescribed.
- Follow reminders through apps or hospital alerts.
Side Effects of Vaccines in Children and How to Manage Them
Common Post-Vaccine Symptoms in Kids
Vaccines are safe, but like any medical intervention, they may cause mild side effects such as:
- Low-grade fever
- Pain/swelling at the injection site
- Fussiness or drowsiness
- Reduced appetite for 1–2 days
These symptoms indicate that the immune system is responding. A cool compress and paracetamol (if prescribed) are usually enough.
Serious But Rare Side Effects: When to Seek Help
Although extremely rare, watch out for:
- High fever over 102°F
- Continuous crying for over 3 hours
- Seizures or allergic reactions (rashes, swelling, breathing issues)
These require immediate medical care. However, it's worth noting that severe side effects occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases, and the benefits of childhood vaccinations far outweigh the risks.
One common milestone that worries many parents is the vaccines at 9 months, especially the Measles-Rubella (MR) shot and JE vaccine in endemic areas. While mild fever or irritability may follow, these are expected immune responses not causes for alarm.
Vaccine Myths and Hesitancy: Facts Every Parent Should Know
Busting the Most Common Myths:
- Myth: “Vaccines cause autism.”
Fact: No scientific evidence supports this claim. Multiple studies worldwide have debunked this. - Myth: “Too many vaccines at once overwhelm the body.”
Fact: Babies handle far more antigens daily from food, air, and bacteria. - Myth: “Natural infection is better than vaccination.”
Fact: Natural infections can cause permanent damage or death, while vaccines prepare the immune system without risks.
While some parents consider an alternative vaccine schedule, it is not medically advised and puts your child at risk. Few parents also worry about the cost of childhood vaccines. However, many essential vaccines are provided for free under India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), and private options remain available for broader protection.
Where to Get Your Child Vaccinated in Bangalore
Looking for a trusted center? Choose a certified children’s hospital in Bangalore with experienced pediatricians, clean facilities, and digital records. Many hospitals offer vaccination plans covering everything from the birth vaccination chart to 6 years immunization and adolescence.
Conclusion
Following the vaccination schedule isn't just a routine, it's a commitment to your child's health, your family's safety, and your community’s well-being. From the 1 year vaccine schedule to 18 month vaccines, every shot matters.
Timely vaccination prevents severe diseases, reduces healthcare costs, and creates herd immunity. Whether you’re navigating a missed vaccination schedule or planning the next vaccines at 15 months, act promptly.
Empower your parenting journey by making informed, timely choices. Consult your pediatrician today and ensure your child is protected, healthy, and future-ready.
FAQ’s
1. How many vaccinations does a child have?
A child receives more than 20 vaccine doses by the age of 16, as per the childhood vaccine schedule followed in India. These include both infant vaccines and optional vaccines recommended by pediatricians.
2. What if my child misses multiple vaccines?
Don’t panic. Your doctor can create a missed vaccination schedule or a personalized catch-up plan based on your child's age and health.
3. Is it safe to give optional and scheduled vaccines together?
Yes, it is completely safe. Doctors often administer multiple vaccines during the same visit without compromising safety or effectiveness. This approach is part of both the newborn vaccine schedule and the infant immunization schedule, helping ensure your child gets timely protection without additional clinic visits.
4. How do I download or track my child’s vaccination schedule?
You can download the official vaccination schedule in India chart from the Ministry of Health or consult your pediatrician for a printed version. Digital health apps also provide reminders and allow you to track the list of immunizations by age, making it easier for busy parents to stay on top of vaccine timelines.
