Quick Answer: YES, vaccines are safe and essential for your child's health! The IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) recommends a specific vaccination schedule that protects children from serious diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria. Vaccines have been extensively tested and have saved millions of lives. While mild side effects like fever and soreness are common, serious reactions are very rare. Don't worry, mummy-papa - vaccinating your child is one of the best things you can do for their health!
---
Why Should I Vaccinate My Child?
Watch: How to boost your baby's brain development. Here are list of foods one should give the baby
The Facts
Statement
Reality
"Vaccines are dangerous"
Vaccines undergo rigorous testing - far safer than the diseases they prevent
"These diseases don't exist anymore"
They're rare BECAUSE of vaccination - stopping would bring them back
"Natural immunity is better"
Some diseases can kill or disable before natural immunity develops
"Too many vaccines overwhelm babies"
Babies' immune systems handle thousands of antigens daily
What Vaccines Protect Against
In India, vaccines protect children from:
Polio - Paralysis, disability
Measles - Can be fatal, causes brain damage
Diphtheria - Throat infection, can suffocate
Pertussis (whooping cough) - Dangerous for newborns
Tetanus - Muscle spasms, can be fatal
Hepatitis B - Liver disease, cancer
Tuberculosis (TB) - Lung disease, common in India
Rotavirus - Severe diarrhea
Pneumococcal disease - Pneumonia, meningitis
Typhoid - Fever, intestinal problems
Chickenpox - Complications can be serious
Reassurance: Vaccines have prevented over 21 million deaths from measles alone between 2000-2017. Your child's vaccines are protecting their future!
Important: Both provide essential protection. Private clinics may offer more comfort and combination vaccines, but government vaccines are equally effective.
Optional vs Mandatory Vaccines
Mandatory (UIP):
BCG, OPV, Hepatitis B, DPT, Measles
Recommended by IAP (optional but important):
Rotavirus, PCV, Typhoid conjugate, Hepatitis A, Varicella, Influenza (annual)
Talk to your pediatrician about which optional vaccines make sense for your child.
---
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My family is pressuring me not to vaccinate. What should I do?
A: Share this article and scientific evidence. The diseases vaccines prevent are far more dangerous than any vaccine side effect. Your child's health comes first.
Q: Can I give paracetamol before vaccination to prevent fever?
A: Not recommended. Giving paracetamol BEFORE vaccination may reduce immune response. Give it AFTER if fever develops.
Q: My baby had a reaction to a previous vaccine. Can they still get vaccinated?
A: It depends on the reaction. Mild fever and fussiness are normal. True allergic reactions are rare. Discuss with your doctor - alternative vaccines may be available.
Q: Is it safe to vaccinate a premature baby?
A: YES! Premature babies need extra protection. Follow the same schedule based on chronological age (not corrected age) unless doctor advises otherwise.
Q: My baby is on antibiotics. Can they get vaccinated?
A: Usually yes, unless they have a fever. Antibiotics don't affect most vaccines. Consult your doctor.
Q: Are combination vaccines safe?
A: Yes! Combination vaccines (like those covering 5-6 diseases in one shot) are thoroughly tested. They reduce pain for baby and number of clinic visits.
---
Key Takeaways
Vaccines are safe - Extensively tested and monitored
Follow the IAP schedule - Timely vaccination provides best protection
Don't delay - Every day without vaccination is a day at risk
Mild side effects are normal - Fever and soreness resolve quickly
No link to autism - This myth has been thoroughly debunked
Breastfeeding helps - Comfort baby during and after vaccination
Catch-up is possible - Missed vaccines can be given later
---
This article was reviewed by pediatricians at Babynama. Last updated: January 2026
---
Need personalized guidance?Book a consultation with our pediatricians or explore our Care Plans for 24/7 expert support!
Get 24/7 Expert Pediatric Care
Access 50+ pediatricians on WhatsApp anytime. Get instant answers for all your baby health concerns.
