Vaccines are arguably the greatest invention in modern medicine, offering a powerful shield of protection for your child against severe, often life-threatening diseases. Yet, as a pediatrician, I often encounter questions and concerns about the complexity and timing of the Indian vaccination schedule.
The message is simple: Do not delay. Do not skip.
- Understanding the Critical Timing
The vaccination schedule for children (from birth to 5 years) is not arbitrary. It is meticulously planned based on:
- The child’s immune system maturity: Vaccines are given when the baby’s immune system is best prepared to respond and build lasting immunity.
- The window of vulnerability: Many diseases, like Polio, Diphtheria, and Pertussis, are most dangerous or even fatal when contracted in infancy. The schedule ensures protection is established before peak exposure risk.
- Dose Spacing: Specific intervals between doses (e.g., at 6, 10, and 14 weeks) are necessary to maximize the vaccine’s effectiveness and create robust, long-term immunity.