📋 TL;DR
- At 2 months: DTaP, IPV, Hib, PCV13, and rotavirus vaccines
- Boosters at 4, 6, and 12-15 months
- MMR and varicella vaccines begin at 12-15 months
- Catch-up schedules are available if doses are missed
👩♃️ Doctor’s Take
“The 2-month visit is when the vaccine series really kicks off, and I know that can feel overwhelming. But the schedule is designed to protect babies when they are most vulnerable. Each vaccine has been rigorously tested and is timed to provide immunity before exposure is likely.” — Dr. Zoya Arshad, MD, FAAP
The 2-Month Visit: Starting the Series
At 2 months, your baby receives their first doses of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), IPV (inactivated polio), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate), and rotavirus vaccine (oral). These may be given as combination vaccines to reduce the number of shots. For example, Pediarix combines DTaP, IPV, and HepB, while Pentacel combines DTaP, IPV, and Hib. Combination vaccines are safe, effective, and reduce the number of injections.
The 4-Month Visit
The second doses of DTaP, IPV, Hib, PCV13, and rotavirus are given at 4 months. Some babies experience mild side effects like low-grade fever, fussiness, or soreness at the injection site. These are normal immune responses and usually resolve within 24-48 hours. Acetaminophen can be given for comfort but should not be given prophylactically before shots.
The 6-Month Visit
Third doses of DTaP, IPV (if not given at 4 months), Hib, PCV13, and rotavirus (if using Rotarix, a second dose; if using RotaTeq, the third dose) are given. The third HepB dose is also due between 6 and 18 months. The influenza vaccine becomes available at 6 months and should be given annually. This is a good time to discuss any vaccine concerns with your pediatrician.
The 12-15 Month Visit
This visit includes the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) first dose, varicella (chickenpox) first dose, HepA first dose, and boosters of PCV13 and Hib. These vaccines protect against serious childhood diseases. MMR and varicella are live attenuated vaccines — they contain weakened virus that stimulates immunity without causing disease in healthy children.
Can I delay or split the schedule?
Is it okay to vaccinate when baby has a cold?
What are common side effects and how do I manage them?
Related: Complete Childhood Vaccine Schedule | When to Call the Pediatrician
📖 More: Pediatrician’s Complete Guide
