Newborn Vaccination Chart India: Complete Guide from Birth to 1 Year
Quick Answer: Vaccinations are crucial for protecting your baby from serious diseases. In India, the IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) recommends vaccines starting at birth with BCG, Hepatitis B, and OPV. Key vaccines continue at 6 weeks, 10 weeks, 14 weeks, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months. Both government (free) and optional vaccines provide comprehensive protection. Keep your vaccination card safe and follow the schedule strictly for best protection.
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Why Vaccinations Are Important
Watch: Understanding Baby Health and Wellness
Vaccines protect your baby from potentially life-threatening diseases by training their immune system to fight infections.
Baby's immune system handles thousands of antigens daily
**"Vaccines cause autism"**
No scientific evidence - completely disproven
**"Natural immunity is better"**
Disease carries serious risks; vaccines are safer
**"Healthy children don't need vaccines"**
Diseases don't discriminate
**"Vaccines contain harmful ingredients"**
All ingredients are safe in vaccine amounts
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Before and After Vaccination
Before the Visit
Preparation
Why
**Bring vaccination card**
Track record
**Feed baby**
Better tolerance
**Dress in easy-access clothes**
Quick injections
**Note any recent illness**
May delay some vaccines
After the Visit
Care
How
**Feed on demand**
Comfort and hydration
**Watch for reactions**
Normal vs. concerning
**Give paracetamol if needed**
For fever or pain
**Keep site clean**
No rubbing
**Note next appointment**
Mark on calendar
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Catch-Up Vaccination
If Doses Are Missed
Situation
Action
**Missed one dose**
Resume schedule, don't restart
**Multiple doses missed**
Doctor will create catch-up plan
**Unknown vaccination history**
May need to restart some vaccines
Important: There's no "too late" for most vaccines. It's always better to catch up than to skip.
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Vaccination Card
Keep It Safe
Tips
Why
**Store in safe place**
Needed for school admission
**Make copies**
Backup in case of loss
**Take photos**
Digital backup
**Bring to every visit**
Update records
What's Recorded
Vaccine given
Date administered
Batch number
Next due date
Doctor/clinic details
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I give multiple vaccines at once?
A: Yes! Giving multiple vaccines at one visit is safe and recommended. It provides faster protection and reduces clinic visits. Combination vaccines (like Pentavalent) do this routinely.
Q: What if my baby has a mild cold on vaccination day?
A: Mild illness (low-grade fever, runny nose) is usually not a reason to delay. Moderate to severe illness may warrant postponement. Your doctor will advise.
Q: DTwP or DTaP - which should I choose?
A: DTaP has fewer side effects (less fever, fussiness) but is more expensive. DTwP is effective and safe. Both protect equally well. Discuss with your pediatrician.
Q: Are government vaccines as good as private ones?
A: Yes! Government vaccines are WHO-prequalified and equally effective. The main difference is the range of optional vaccines available and sometimes the type (DTwP vs DTaP).
Q: What if I can't afford optional vaccines?
A: Focus on the government schedule - it covers essential protection. If possible, prioritize Rotavirus and Pneumococcal as they prevent common, serious illnesses.
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Key Takeaways
Start at birth - BCG, Hepatitis B, and OPV are given immediately
Follow the schedule - Timing matters for best protection
Don't skip doses - Complete all recommended doses
Both free and paid vaccines are effective - Choose what works for you
Minor side effects are normal - Watch for severe reactions
Keep your card safe - You'll need it throughout childhood
Catch up if behind - It's never too late
Ask your doctor - For personalized advice
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This article was reviewed by pediatricians at Babynama. Last updated: January 2026
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