YES, the 6-in-1 vaccine is SAFE, EFFECTIVE, and a great choice for your baby! This combination vaccine protects against 6 serious diseases with just one injection - meaning fewer needle pricks, less pain, and the same excellent protection. Side effects are usually mild and temporary. This guide covers everything Indian parents need to know about the hexavalent vaccine.
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The 6-in-1 vaccine protects against:
| Disease | What It Is | Why It's Dangerous |
|---|---|---|
| Diphtheria | Bacterial throat infection | Can cause breathing problems, heart failure |
| Tetanus | "Lockjaw" from bacteria | Severe muscle spasms, can be fatal |
| Pertussis (Whooping Cough) | Bacterial respiratory infection | Dangerous coughing fits, fatal in babies |
| Polio | Viral paralysis disease | Permanent paralysis, respiratory failure |
| Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) | Bacterial meningitis, pneumonia | Brain damage, death |
| Hepatitis B | Viral liver infection | Chronic liver disease, cancer |
6 diseases, 1 injection = Fewer tears!
Common brands:
Also known as: Hexavalent vaccine, DTaP-IPV-HepB-Hib
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fewer injections | 1 shot instead of multiple |
| Less pain | Fewer needle pricks |
| Same protection | Full immunity to 6 diseases |
| Fewer appointments | Less time at clinic |
| Complete protection | All essential vaccines covered |
YES! Research confirms combination vaccines provide equal protection to separate vaccines. Your baby is fully protected against all 6 diseases.
| Dose | Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st dose | 6 weeks (1.5 months) | First infant vaccine |
| 2nd dose | 10 weeks (2.5 months) | 4 weeks after 1st |
| 3rd dose | 14 weeks (3.5 months) | 4 weeks after 2nd |
| Booster | 16-18 months | Important for lasting immunity |
All 4 doses needed for full protection!
Note: Cost is higher than individual vaccines but offers convenience
YES! Key safety facts:
Common (normal) side effects:
| Side Effect | What to Expect | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pain at injection site | Redness, swelling, tenderness | 1-3 days |
| Fever | Low-grade, usually mild | 1-2 days |
| Fussiness | Crying, irritability | 1-2 days |
| Sleepiness | May sleep more | 1-2 days |
| Decreased appetite | Temporary | 1-2 days |
These are signs the vaccine is working!
For fever:
For injection site:
For fussiness:
These are RARE but need immediate attention!
Wait if baby has:
Discuss with doctor if baby has:
| Factor | 6-in-1 | Separate Vaccines |
|---|---|---|
| Injections | 1 per visit | 3-4 per visit |
| Pain for baby | Less | More |
| Appointments | Fewer | More |
| Cost | Higher per injection | Lower per injection |
| Total protection | Same | Same |
| Side effects | Similar | Similar (per vaccine) |
Both options provide excellent protection!
| Vaccine | Diseases Covered | Hepatitis B |
|---|---|---|
| 6-in-1 | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hib, Hepatitis B | Included |
| 5-in-1 | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hib | NOT included |
If using 5-in-1: Hepatitis B must be given separately
First 24-48 hours:
Normal to see:
Discuss options with your pediatrician based on your needs and budget
A: Completely safe! Baby's immune system handles thousands of antigens (germs) every day. 6 vaccines together is tiny fraction of what immune system processes. Research confirms same safety and effectiveness as separate vaccines. Combination vaccines have been used worldwide for decades. All vaccines in 6-in-1 are inactivated - cannot cause the diseases.
A: YES, very normal! Fever, fussiness, and injection site pain are common side effects showing immune system is working. Give paracetamol (Calpol/Crocin) at correct dose, extra comfort, feed on demand. Usually resolves in 1-2 days. Worry if: fever very high (105°F+), crying non-stop 3+ hours, seizure, baby looks very sick, or symptoms last more than 3 days.
A: Yes, temporary sleep changes are normal! Some babies sleep more (body is working on immunity), some are more restless (discomfort, mild fever). Usually returns to normal within 2-3 days. Help by: keeping baby comfortable, pain medication if needed, extra comfort. If severe sleep disturbance lasting more than a week, consult pediatrician.
A: Usually not. Government immunization program provides individual vaccines (DPT, OPV, Hepatitis B, Hib separately). 6-in-1 is typically available at private clinics. Both options provide good protection. 6-in-1 advantage is convenience (fewer injections). If cost is concern, government vaccines are excellent and free.
A: Schedule as soon as possible! It's never too late to continue vaccination. Don't restart series - just continue from where you stopped. Speak to your pediatrician for updated schedule. Protection is better late than never. Important to complete all doses including booster at 16-18 months for full immunity.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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