Must Vaccinations for Babies Till 2 Years in India – Government & Private Options

Vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting your baby from serious illnesses, especially in the first two years. India has both government and private immunization schedules, ensuring every child gets essential vaccines. While the government sector provides free vaccinations under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), private hospitals offer additional optional vaccines for broader protection.

Let’s break it down in a simple way.

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Government Vaccination Schedule (Free Under UIP)

India’s National Immunization Schedule (NIS) covers these essential vaccines:

At Birth

✔ BCG (Tuberculosis)
✔ Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV-0)
✔ Hepatitis B (HepB-1)

6 Weeks

✔ OPV-1
✔ Pentavalent-1 (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, HepB, Hib)
✔ fIPV-1 (Fractional Inactivated Polio Vaccine)
✔ RVV-1 (Rotavirus Vaccine)
✔ PCV-1 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)

10 Weeks

✔ OPV-2
✔ Pentavalent-2
✔ RVV-2
✔ PCV-2

14 Weeks

✔ OPV-3
✔ Pentavalent-3
✔ fIPV-2
✔ RVV-3
✔ PCV-Booster

9-12 Months

✔ MR-1 (Measles & Rubella)
✔ JE-1 (Japanese Encephalitis)
✔ PCV-Booster

16-24 Months

✔ MR-2
✔ DPT-Booster-1
✔ OPV-Booster
✔ JE-2

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Private Vaccination Options (Optional but Recommended)

If you’re consulting a private hospital, you may be advised to take some additional vaccines:

✔ Rotavirus Vaccine – Protects against severe diarrhea.
✔ Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) – Prevents pneumonia and meningitis.
✔ Hepatitis A Vaccine – Prevents liver infections caused by Hepatitis A virus.
✔ Varicella Vaccine (Chickenpox) – Protects against chickenpox.
✔ Influenza Vaccine – Helps prevent seasonal flu.

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What You Should Keep in Mind

• Government vaccinations are FREE and essential – Don’t skip them!
• Private hospitals may suggest additional vaccines – Check with your pediatrician if they’re needed.
• Keep an immunization record – Track your baby’s vaccines to ensure no missed doses.
• Stick to the schedule – Timely vaccinations provide the best protection.

Your baby’s health is the top priority, and vaccinations are the best shield against infections. Follow the schedule, stay informed, and consult your doctor for any doubts.

Want a printable vaccination tracker? Let me know in the comments!