Baby's first vaccines: the schedule to know
The first year's vaccination schedule includes several appointments. Knowing it ahead of time helps you plan and worry less.
The main milestones
- 2 months: first round of several vaccines (following your country's current recommendations)
- 4 months: booster of the same vaccines
- 11 months: second booster, often combined with other vaccines
- 12 months: vaccine against certain childhood illnesses, depending on the local schedule
What to expect after a shot
A mild fever, crying, or a bit of irritability in the 24 to 48 hours after the shot are common and normal. A local reaction at the injection site (redness, a small bump) usually clears up within a few days.
The right move
Keep the health record up to date and ask the pediatrician or midwife all your questions at appointments: the exact schedule varies by country and is updated regularly.
What to bring to the appointment
- The health record, needed for every shot
- An outfit that's easy to remove, for quick access to the thigh or arm
- A comfort item (a stuffed toy, a pacifier) to soothe the baby afterwards
Easing the pain of the injection
Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding during the injection meaningfully reduces the pain a baby feels, a well-documented effect in infants. A weight-appropriate painkiller can also be suggested by the paediatrician if fever follows the vaccine.
Throughout this first year, Kickoala stays useful for adding items as the need becomes clear over time.
