Children's Vaccinations at Vivekananda Hospital

Name: Vivekananda Hospital Medical Services
Brand: Vivekananda Hospital
Rating: 4.8 (2200 reviews)

Complete IAP-recommended vaccination schedule from birth to 18 years. Coordinated by our paediatric team led by Dr. Shalini Mehrotra. Cold-chain stored vaccines, child-friendly approach, and detailed parent guidance for every visit.

IAP Schedule Birth to 18 Years Catch-Up Available DCGI Approved Cold-Chain Storage

Call +91 72079 04418 Book Paediatric Appointment

IMPORTANT FOR PARENTS: The IAP schedule on this page is general reference. Your child's individual vaccination plan depends on age, previous vaccinations, current health, and updated IAP guidelines. Always verify your child's individual schedule with our paediatrician Dr. Shalini Mehrotra. Schedule consultation at +91 72079 04418.

Jump to Section

Why Vaccinate IAP Full Schedule Before/During/After Warning Signs Missed Vaccines Vaccination Card How to Book Parent FAQ

IAP

Schedule Followed

Age Milestones

DCGI

Approved Vaccines

2-8°C

Cold-Chain Storage

Years Trusted Care

Complete Childhood Vaccination Care

Childhood vaccinations are the foundation of lifelong health. At Vivekananda Hospital, our paediatric team coordinates comprehensive vaccination care from your baby's first hours after birth through adolescence. We follow the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommended immunisation schedule, supplemented by individualised assessment for each child.

Our paediatrician Dr. Shalini Mehrotra reviews every child's growth, health status, previous vaccinations, and family history to create a tailored vaccination plan. All vaccines are sourced from authorised distributors, stored under strict cold-chain conditions (2-8°C with backup power), and administered using sterile single-use syringes by trained medical staff. Post-vaccination monitoring ensures any immediate reactions are promptly addressed. To schedule your child's vaccination consultation, call +91 72079 04418.

Why Childhood Vaccines Matter

Childhood vaccines protect your child from serious infections during their most vulnerable years. They provide individual protection AND contribute to community immunity that protects babies and children who cannot be vaccinated.

Lifelong Protection

Childhood vaccines build immunity that protects your child throughout their life against diseases like polio, measles, hepatitis, tetanus, and pneumonia.

Best Time is Early

Babies and young children have the strongest immune response to vaccines. Early vaccination establishes protection before disease exposure becomes likely.

School Requirements

Most schools require updated vaccination records for admission. Following the IAP schedule ensures your child meets all educational vaccination requirements.

Community Protection

When children are vaccinated, they protect newborns too young for vaccines and immunocompromised children who cannot receive vaccines.

Birth to 18 Years

Complete IAP Vaccination Schedule

Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommended immunisation schedule with detailed parent notes for each visit. Click any age milestone for what to expect.

Important Disclaimer: This schedule is general IAP reference. Your child's individual schedule may vary based on previous vaccinations, current health, and updated IAP guidelines. The IAP schedule is updated periodically. Always verify the current schedule and your child's individual plan with our paediatrician Dr. Shalini Mehrotra during consultation. Bring your child's vaccination card to every visit.

At Birth

Birth Vaccinations (within first 24-72 hours)

BCG OPV-0 (Oral Polio) Hepatitis B-1

Critical foundation vaccines administered before mother and baby leave the hospital. BCG protects against tuberculosis, OPV against polio, and Hepatitis B prevents lifelong liver infection. All three are typically given before discharge.

Parent Tip: If your baby was delivered at another hospital, bring birth records to first visit. We can verify which birth vaccines were given and complete any missing ones.

6 Weeks

First Major Vaccination Visit

DTwP/DTaP-1 IPV-1 Hib-1 Rotavirus-1 PCV-1 Hepatitis B-2

Multiple vaccines administered. Many are combined into single injection (Pentavalent or Hexavalent vaccine) - reducing the number of needle pokes for your baby. Rotavirus is given orally.

Parent Tip: Plan a quiet day at home after this visit. Babies may be fussy for 12-24 hours. Keep paracetamol drops handy if paediatrician advised them. Fever up to 101°F is normal and expected.

10 Weeks

Second Vaccination Visit

DTwP/DTaP-2 IPV-2 Hib-2 Rotavirus-2 PCV-2

Second dose of primary series vaccines. Continues building immunity. Reactions are typically milder than first dose since baby is older.

Parent Tip: Note your baby's previous reaction in vaccination card - paediatrician will check before this visit. Most babies handle the second visit better than the first.

14 Weeks

Third Vaccination Visit

DTwP/DTaP-3 IPV-3 Hib-3 Rotavirus-3 PCV-3

Completes the primary 3-dose series for most childhood vaccines. Significant immunity is now established against multiple serious infections.

Parent Tip: After this visit, your baby has substantial protection. The next visit is at 6 months - mark your calendar. Continue exclusive breastfeeding (or appropriate feeding) until 6 months.

6 Months

Half-Year Visit

Influenza-1 (First Annual) Hepatitis B-3

First influenza vaccination - annual flu shots will continue every year afterward. Hepatitis B series completed providing lifelong protection.

Parent Tip: This is also when many babies start solid foods. Note that influenza needs a second dose 4 weeks later for first-time recipients. Your paediatrician will schedule this.

9 Months

9-Month Visit

MMR-1

First Measles, Mumps, Rubella vaccine - protects against these highly contagious viral infections. May also include Yellow Fever vaccine if family is travelling to endemic areas.

Parent Tip: MMR is a live vaccine - your baby may have mild fever or rash 5-12 days later (not immediately). This is normal vaccine response, not illness. Keep paediatrician's number handy.

12 Months

1-Year Birthday Visit

Hepatitis A-1

First Hepatitis A vaccine - protects against waterborne hepatitis common in India. Two-dose series with second dose at 18 months.

Parent Tip: Coincides with first birthday - many parents combine the celebration with this visit. Bring growth chart updates to share with paediatrician.

15 Months

15-Month Visit

MMR-2 Varicella-1 (Chickenpox) PCV Booster

Second MMR dose strengthens immunity. First Varicella vaccine prevents chickenpox - which can be severe in older children. PCV booster maintains pneumococcal protection.

Parent Tip: Varicella may cause mild rash 5-26 days after vaccination. This is the live vaccine taking effect. Avoid contact with pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals during this window.

18 Months

1.5-Year Visit

DTwP/DTaP Booster-1 IPV Booster-1 Hib Booster-1 Hepatitis A-2

First booster doses extending immunity from primary series. Hepatitis A series completed for long-term protection.

Parent Tip: Booster shots may cause stronger reactions than primary series in some children. This is normal immune memory response. Plan a quiet day after vaccination.

2 Years

2-Year Visit

Typhoid Conjugate

Typhoid vaccine for protection against waterborne typhoid fever common in India. Annual influenza vaccine should continue this year.

Parent Tip: Typhoid is endemic in India - this vaccine is very important. Annual flu shot is also due around this time (October-December).

4-6 Years

School Entry Visit

DTwP/DTaP Booster-2 OPV Booster MMR Booster Varicella-2

School-entry boosters provide reinforced immunity for school years when disease exposure increases. Critical visit before formal schooling begins.

Parent Tip: Most schools require updated vaccination records for admission. Get the school admission form filled by paediatrician at this visit. Carry vaccination card to school for office records.

9-12 Years

Pre-Adolescent Visit

HPV-1 HPV-2 (6 months later) Tdap

HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer (in girls), anal/oral cancers, and genital warts. Recommended for both boys and girls before sexual debut. Pre-adolescent age (9-14) needs only 2 doses; older children need 3. Tdap booster maintains tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis immunity.

Parent Tip: HPV vaccine works best when given before any potential exposure. The two-dose schedule (instead of three) for ages 9-14 is a major benefit of vaccinating at this age. Discuss any concerns about HPV with paediatrician openly.

15-18 Years

Adolescent Visit

Tdap (catch-up if needed) HPV catch-up Annual Influenza

Final adolescent vaccinations complete childhood immunisation series. HPV catch-up is needed in 3-dose schedule for those aged 15+ who missed earlier vaccination. Tdap if not given earlier.

Parent Tip: Many adolescents go to college or move away after this age. Ensure all vaccines are completed and updated vaccination records are with the family. Some colleges/universities require specific vaccinations.

Annual influenza vaccine recommended every year from 6 months of age. Typhoid revaccination every 3 years if needed. Catch-up vaccinations available at any age - schedule consultation for individualised plan.

Before, During, and After Vaccination

Complete parent guide for what to do before each vaccination visit, what to expect during, and how to care for your child after.

Step 1

Before the Visit

Bring vaccination cardCarry your child's vaccination record to every visit
Note any illnessInform paediatrician if child has fever or active infection
List allergiesMention any food, medication, or vaccine allergies
Feed your child normallyDon't fast - normal feeding before vaccination is fine
Comfortable clothingLoose-fitting clothes for easy access to arms/thighs
Bring comfort itemsFavorite toy, pacifier, or blanket helps

Step 2

During the Visit

Doctor reviews recordsPaediatrician checks growth, history, current health
Discuss any concernsAsk about side effects, schedule, or other questions
Hold your babyComforting hold reduces stress (paediatrician guides you)
Distraction helpsSinging, talking, or feeding during injection comforts baby
Stay calm yourselfBabies sense parental anxiety - stay relaxed
Wait 15-30 minutesPost-vaccination observation for any immediate reactions

Step 3

After the Visit

Mild fever is normalUp to 101°F (38.3°C) for 24-48 hours is expected
Use paracetamol if advisedOnly as recommended by paediatrician for fever
Cool compressApply to injection site if swollen or red
Continue normal feedingDon't restrict feeds - hydration is important
Extra cuddles & restBabies may be fussy or sleepy for a day
Update vaccination cardRecord date, vaccine, batch, next due date

When to Call Paediatrician Immediately

Most vaccine reactions are mild and resolve within 24-48 hours. However, some signs require prompt medical attention. Contact our paediatrician immediately if your child shows any of these warning signs after vaccination:

High Fever Above 102°F Lasting more than 48 hours or rising rapidly

Severe Swelling Spreading redness/swelling beyond injection site

Breathing Difficulty Wheezing, fast breathing, or struggling to breathe

Persistent Crying Inconsolable crying for more than 3 hours

Seizures or Convulsions Any unusual movements or fits

Severe Vomiting Repeated vomiting or persistent diarrhoea

Allergic Reaction Signs Hives, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing

Unusual Lethargy Excessive sleepiness, unresponsive, or limp

Call +91 72079 04418 immediately or visit our 24/7 emergency department. Don't wait - prompt action ensures the best outcome.

Missed Vaccinations? Catch-Up is Available

Don't worry if your child missed scheduled vaccinations - catch-up immunisation is almost always possible. The IAP provides specific catch-up guidelines based on your child's age and which vaccines were missed.

Bring Vaccination Card

Carry your child's vaccination record - or whatever documentation exists - to consultation for review.

Doctor Reviews Records

Paediatrician identifies which vaccines have been given and which are missing or overdue.

Individual Catch-Up Plan

Based on age and gaps, we create a personalised catch-up schedule following IAP guidelines.

Multiple Visits if Needed

Catch-up may require several visits with appropriate spacing between vaccines.

Important: Most missed vaccines can be caught up at any time, though some have age limits (HPV, certain combinations). Don't delay - the sooner catch-up begins, the sooner your child has full protection. Schedule consultation at +91 72079 04418.

Managing Your Child's Vaccination Card

The vaccination card is one of the most important documents for your child's health. Critical for school admissions, travel, and continuity of care.

Tip 1

Bring to Every Visit

Always carry the vaccination card to every paediatric appointment. The card is updated at each visit.

Tip 2

Photocopy & Scan

Keep photocopies and digital scans (phone photos) as backup. Update digital copy after each visit.

Tip 3

Set Calendar Reminders

Add next due dates to your phone calendar with reminders 1 week before. Don't rely on memory.

Tip 4

School Admissions

Most schools require vaccination records for admission. Keep updated copy ready for school office.

Tip 5

Travel Documentation

International travel may require vaccine certificates. Yellow Fever has special documentation requirements.

Tip 6

Provider Changes

If switching paediatricians, request complete updated records. New provider needs full vaccination history.

Tip 7

Lost Card Recovery

If card is lost, contact previous vaccinating hospitals to reconstruct records. Don't restart vaccinations.

Tip 8

Long-Term Storage

Keep vaccination records throughout childhood and adolescence. May be needed in college, employment, or international travel.

How to Book Paediatric Vaccination

Simple 4-step process for your child's vaccination at Vivekananda Hospital.

Schedule Consultation

Call +91 72079 04418 or use Book Appointment page. Specify paediatric consultation.

Bring Records

Vaccination card, growth chart, photo ID, and any current medications/allergies info.

Doctor Review

Dr. Shalini Mehrotra reviews records, current health, and recommends appropriate vaccines.

Vaccination & Card Update

Vaccines administered, post-vaccination monitoring, vaccination card updated with next dose schedule.

Important Medical Information for Parents

This page is general information only. The vaccination schedule and recommendations on this page are general guidance based on Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommendations and Government of India guidelines. Your paediatrician will provide personalised recommendations based on your child's age, medical history, current health, allergies, and risk factors.

IAP schedule updates: The IAP schedule is updated periodically. Information on this page may not reflect the latest changes. Always verify the current schedule with our paediatrician Dr. Shalini Mehrotra.

Adverse reactions: Most vaccines cause mild reactions (pain at injection site, low-grade fever, fussiness) that resolve within 1-2 days. Serious reactions are rare. Inform our medical team about any allergies, current medications, or previous vaccine reactions before vaccination.

Special situations: Children with weakened immune systems, active illness, or specific medical conditions may need modified vaccination schedules. Some live vaccines are contraindicated in immunocompromised children.

For urgent post-vaccination concerns, contact us immediately at +91 72079 04418 or visit our 24/7 emergency department.

Parent Frequently Asked Questions

12 detailed answers to common parent questions about childhood vaccinations.

What vaccines does my newborn need at birth?

At birth, the IAP recommends three critical vaccines for your newborn - BCG (against tuberculosis), OPV-0 (oral polio), and Hepatitis B-1. These are typically administered before mother and baby leave the hospital, ideally within the first 24-72 hours. BCG protects against tuberculosis which is endemic in India. OPV provides early polio protection. Hepatitis B prevents lifelong liver infection. Most maternity hospitals administer these automatically - check with your hospital.

Can my baby be vaccinated if they have a mild cold or fever?

Generally, mild illness like a runny nose or low-grade fever is NOT a reason to delay vaccination. Babies can safely receive scheduled vaccines if they have minor cold symptoms. However, if your baby has high fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C), severe illness, or is on antibiotics for serious infection, vaccination may be postponed. Bring your baby to consultation - our paediatrician Dr. Shalini Mehrotra will assess and decide whether to proceed or reschedule.

What should I bring to my child's vaccination appointment?

Bring these items to every vaccination appointment - 1) Child's vaccination card with previous records, 2) Growth chart if available, 3) Photo identification (parent's), 4) Hospital registration card if returning patient, 5) List of any medications your child is currently taking, 6) Information about any allergies or previous vaccine reactions, 7) Comfort items for child (favorite toy, pacifier, blanket), 8) Light snacks/feeding bottle for after vaccination. Wear loose-fitting clothing on your child for easy access to vaccination sites.

What can I expect after my baby gets vaccinated?

Common reactions after vaccination include - mild fever (under 101°F) for 1-2 days, fussiness or irritability for a day, redness or mild swelling at injection site, slight loss of appetite, sleepiness or unusual quietness. These reactions show vaccine is working. Severe reactions are rare. Use age-appropriate paracetamol if your paediatrician has advised it for fever. Apply cool compress to injection site if needed. Continue normal feeding. Most reactions resolve within 24-48 hours.

When should I worry about post-vaccination reactions?

Contact our paediatrician immediately if your child develops any of these warning signs - high fever above 102°F (39°C) lasting more than 48 hours, severe swelling or redness spreading from injection site, difficulty breathing or swallowing, persistent crying for more than 3 hours, seizures or unusual movements, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, signs of severe allergic reaction (hives, facial swelling, breathing difficulty). Call +91 72079 04418 immediately or visit our emergency department. Most vaccine reactions are mild - serious reactions are rare but require prompt attention.

What if my child missed scheduled vaccinations?

Missed vaccinations are very common and almost always correctable through catch-up immunisation. The IAP provides specific guidelines for catch-up vaccination based on your child's age and which vaccines were missed. Don't skip the missed dose - catch-up restores protection. Bring your child's vaccination card to consultation - our paediatrician reviews what's been given, identifies gaps, and creates an individualised catch-up schedule. Most vaccines can be caught up at any time, though some have age limits. Schedule consultation as soon as possible to assess catch-up needs.

Are combination vaccines safe for babies?

Yes, combination vaccines like Pentavalent (5-in-1) and Hexavalent (6-in-1) are safe and recommended by IAP. They combine multiple vaccines into a single injection - reducing the number of needle pokes for your baby while providing the same protection as individual vaccines. Combination vaccines have been used safely worldwide for decades. They reduce visits, lower stress for babies and parents, and improve completion rates. Your paediatrician will recommend appropriate combination vaccines based on availability and your baby's age.

How do I track my child's vaccinations?

Maintain a comprehensive vaccination record using these methods - 1) Official vaccination card provided at each visit (most important), 2) Photocopy/scan the card and store digitally, 3) Note next due dates in calendar with reminders, 4) Carry vaccination card to all paediatric visits, 5) Request updated records before changing healthcare providers, 6) Check school/college admission requirements (some require specific vaccinations). The vaccination card is critical for school admissions, travel documentation, and continuity of care. Replace lost cards immediately by contacting the vaccinating hospital.

Is HPV vaccine necessary for my pre-teen daughter (or son)?

Yes, HPV vaccination is strongly recommended for pre-teens (both girls and boys) per IAP and global guidelines. HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer (in women), anal cancer, oropharyngeal cancers, and genital warts. The optimal age is 9-14 years (before sexual activity), when only 2 doses are needed instead of 3. Vaccinating your child early provides the best protection - the immune response is strongest at this age, and long-term protection is established before any potential exposure. HPV is one of the most important cancer prevention vaccines available.

Can my child get vaccinated if they have allergies?

Most allergies do NOT prevent vaccination. Common allergies (food, dust, pollen) are usually compatible with all routine childhood vaccines. However, severe allergies to specific vaccine components (egg protein, gelatin, neomycin) require medical evaluation. If your child has had any severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous vaccine or any vaccine ingredient, inform our paediatrician before vaccination. Most vaccines have alternative formulations or modified protocols available for children with allergies. Detailed allergy history is reviewed during consultation.

Are there vaccines available beyond the IAP schedule?

Yes, several optional/recommended vaccines exist beyond the standard IAP schedule. These include - Influenza (annual flu vaccine recommended yearly), Hepatitis A (additional doses for some travel), Meningococcal vaccines, Cholera (for high-risk travel), Yellow Fever (for international travel - special centres only), Japanese Encephalitis (in endemic regions). Discuss travel plans, family history, and lifestyle factors with our paediatrician to determine if your child needs additional vaccines beyond the standard schedule.

How long do childhood vaccines protect my child?

Vaccine protection duration varies - Lifelong protection (most childhood vaccines like MMR, Varicella after full series, Hepatitis B), 10+ years (DTwP/DTaP requires periodic boosters), Annual (influenza vaccine - effectiveness wanes seasonally), 3+ years (Typhoid - revaccination recommended). Some vaccines need adolescent boosters (Tdap), and some need adult boosters (Td every 10 years). Long-term protection requires completing the full series and maintaining recommended boosters. Your paediatrician tracks when boosters are due.

Protect your child's health

Schedule paediatric consultation for vaccination, catch-up immunisation, or vaccination card review. Our paediatric team provides individualised vaccination plans following IAP guidelines.

Call +91 72079 04418 Book Paediatric Appointment All Vaccinations