India's Childhood Vaccination Schedule: A Parent's Complete Guide
From birth to 15 years, every vaccine your child needs — with timing, what to expect, and how to handle common post-vaccine reactions.
Dr. Asha Krishnamurthy
Paediatric Intensivist, iHealthPro Hospital
Why Vaccination Is Non-Negotiable
Vaccines are one of the most cost-effective public health interventions in history. The near-elimination of polio in India, the 96% reduction in measles deaths, and the control of diphtheria and tetanus are all direct results of vaccination campaigns. Every unvaccinated child is at personal risk and contributes to weakening herd immunity that protects infants too young to be vaccinated and immunocompromised individuals.
IAP Recommended Schedule at Birth
At birth, every baby in India should receive BCG (for tuberculosis), OPV-0 (oral polio vaccine, first dose), and Hepatitis B (first dose). These vaccines are safe to give immediately after birth and provide early critical protection. BCG in particular offers strong protection against severe forms of childhood tuberculosis including TB meningitis.
6, 10, and 14 Weeks: The Critical Window
At 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, babies receive DTwP (or DTaP) for diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough; IPV (inactivated polio vaccine); Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) which prevents bacterial meningitis; Hepatitis B doses; and Rotavirus vaccine for diarrhoeal disease. The pentavalent vaccine combines DTwP+Hib+Hep B in a single injection, reducing needle pricks.
9 Months to 2 Years: Measles, Chickenpox, and More
At 9 months, the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine is given. At 12 months, the Hepatitis A vaccine (two doses, 6 months apart) and Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine are recommended. At 15 months, the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) booster and second varicella dose complete this series. The IAP also recommends the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) at 9–12 months in endemic areas like India.
Managing Common Post-Vaccine Reactions
Most post-vaccine reactions are mild and self-limiting. Low-grade fever (under 38.5°C) in the 24–48 hours after vaccination is common and can be managed with paracetamol. Local redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site typically resolves within 3 days. A lump at the BCG site (BCG papule) appearing 2–4 weeks after vaccination is normal and may persist for months. Seek immediate medical attention for high fever above 40°C, inconsolable crying lasting more than 3 hours, fits or convulsions, or skin rash within hours of vaccination.
Key Takeaways
- 1BCG, OPV, and Hep B at birth are non-negotiable — these protect against tuberculosis, polio, and hepatitis.
- 2The 6-10-14 week window for pentavalent + IPV + Rotavirus vaccines is critical — delays reduce effectiveness.
- 3MMR at 15 months is essential; measles remains a leading cause of childhood deaths in under-vaccinated communities.
- 4Post-vaccine fever under 38.5°C is normal — paracetamol and extra fluids are sufficient.
- 5A BCG lump appearing weeks later is normal and should not be punctured.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 108 immediately.
About the Author
Dr. Asha Krishnamurthy
Paediatric Intensivist, iHealthPro Hospital
Dr. Asha Krishnamurthy is a Paediatric Intensivist with 17 years of experience. She is a member of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Advisory Group on Immunisation and has contributed to the national immunisation guidelines.
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