As a parent, your child’s health and safety are your top priorities—and vaccination plays a crucial role in protecting them from life-threatening diseases. In India, where infectious diseases  still pose a risk, staying up to date with your child’s immunization schedule is not just important—it's essential. 

I'm Dr. Sowmya Arudi Nagarajan, Pediatrician and Allergy Specialist based in Bangalore, and I often meet parents who are confused or overwhelmed by the vaccination timeline. This guide is designed to simplify that journey and help you confidently navigate your child’s immunization milestones. 

Why Vaccines Matter? 

Vaccines work by preparing your child’s immune system to fight off dangerous infections—before they encounter them in real life. Immunization is one of the safest and most effective public health interventions, and it’s the first line of defense against diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, measles, and influenza. 

Beyond individual protection, vaccines also contribute to herd immunity, protecting vulnerable children who can’t be vaccinated due to medical conditions. 

Understanding India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) 

India’s UIP recommends a specific schedule of vaccines from birth up to adolescence. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the key vaccinations by age: 

At Birth 

• BCG – Protects against tuberculosis 
• OPV-0 (Oral Polio Vaccine) 
• Hepatitis B – First dose 

6, 10, and 14 Weeks 

• DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) 
• IPV (Injectable Polio Vaccine) 
• Hepatitis B 
• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B) 
• Rotavirus 
• PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) 

6 Months 

• Influenza (optional, but highly recommended) 

9 Months 

• Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccine 
• Typhoid (conjugate vaccine) 

12-15 Months 

• Hepatitis A 
• Varicella (chickenpox) 
• Booster for PCV 

18 Months 

• DPT Booster 1 
• Hib Booster 
• MR Booster 

2 Years and Beyond 

• Typhoid Booster 
• Annual Influenza Vaccine (recommended) 

4-6 Years 

• DPT Booster 2 
• Polio Booster 
• MMR Booster (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 

10-14 Years 

• Tdap or Td Booster 
• HPV Vaccine (for girls and boys, ideally before age 15) 

Personalized Vaccination Plans with Dr. Sowmya 

Every child is unique. Factors like allergies, premature birth, travel, or underlying health conditions can influence vaccination timing. At my clinic, I provide personalized immunization schedules and track your child’s progress using digital reminders, so you never miss a critical dose. 

I also offer travel vaccinations and catch-up immunization plans for children who’ve missed earlier doses. Education and counseling are an important part of my consultations—so parents understand not just the "when," but the "why" behind each shot. 

Final Word: Stay Protected, Stay Informed 

Vaccines are a gift of science and compassion—protecting not just your child, but the community. By staying informed and on schedule, you’re investing in your child’s lifelong health. 

If you have questions about your child’s immunization schedule or need a customized plan, feel free to consult with me at my Bangalore clinic. Together, let’s build a healthier, safer future for our children.