728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.

Infant/Child Immunization Schedule
Updated: April 1998

Shots Birth 2 mo 4 mo 6 mo 12-15 mo 4-6 years
DTP
  X X X X X
HBV
X X   X    
PRP-D
  X X X X  
MMR
        X X
OPV
  X X   X X

DTP (Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis)
The DPT provides protection against diptheria, "whooping cough", and tetanus ("lockjaw").
Side effects of the vaccine may include redness or swelling at the injection site, fever, crying and irritability

HBV (Hepatitis B)
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer. Side effects from the vaccine are mild and rare.

PRP-D (Haemophilus influenzae b, formerly the HIB or PRP Vaccine)
Haemophilus influenzae b can cause ear and sinus infections as well as meningitis and pneumonia. Side effects of the vaccine may include redness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever.

MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
First dose not given before one year of age as the baby still has some of its mother's antibodies, which may interfere with the effectiveness of the vaccine. Should not be given if the baby is allergic to eggs. Side effects of the vaccine may include rash or mild fever1-2 weeks after vaccination, swollen glands, nasal congestion

OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine)
A live but weakened dose of polio given by mouth (a few drops on the tongue). 1 out of every 8.1 million babies vaccinated may contract polio. OPV should not be given to any baby in frequent contact with someone with a weakened immune system (AIDS, chemotherapy), pregnant women and anyone with cancer - instead get the IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) injection.


If you have questions or concerns about vaccines, call the National Immunization Information Hotline at 1-800-232-2522.

Report possible reaction or adverse health effects to your health care provider. The Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System receives reports from health care providers and others about vaccine side effects, a\nd may be reached at 1-800-822-7967.

Books about Vaccinations:

back to the index