💉 Baby Vaccination Schedule India
IAP 2026 immunisation calendar with personalised due dates from your baby's date of birth
Quick Answer
India's immunisation schedule starts at birth with BCG, Hepatitis B, and OPV-0. As per IAP 2026 guidelines, the first cluster of vaccines — DPT, IPV, Hepatitis B, and Hib — is due at exactly 6 weeks of age. Missing vaccines by more than 4 weeks leaves your baby vulnerable during the highest-risk window.
💉 Vaccination Schedule
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This schedule is based on IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) 2026 recommended immunisation guidelines. It is for informational purposes only. Actual vaccination schedules may vary based on your baby's health, doctor's advice, vaccine availability, and the type of combination vaccines your hospital offers. Always follow your paediatrician's instructions. Some vaccines listed as "optional" may be strongly recommended by your doctor based on your location (e.g., JE vaccine in endemic areas).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vaccines are mandatory in India?
India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) mandates: BCG, OPV (0/1/2/3 doses), Hepatitis B (birth + 6/10/14 weeks), DPT, IPV, Hib, Rotavirus, PCV (Pneumococcal), Measles-Rubella, JE (in endemic states), and Typhoid (in select areas). The IAP additionally recommends Varicella, MMR, Hepatitis A, HPV (for girls), and Meningococcal vaccines as optional but strongly advised.
Can I delay a vaccination?
Vaccines can be given a few weeks late without restarting the series. However, unnecessary delays leave your baby unprotected during a vulnerable window. If your baby was sick on the vaccination date, reschedule as soon as they recover — most illnesses are not a reason to skip vaccines. Always consult your paediatrician.
What is the difference between OPV and IPV?
OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) is given as drops by mouth. IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) is given as an injection. India uses both: OPV at birth and at 6/10/14 weeks, IPV at 6 and 14 weeks. The combination provides stronger, longer-lasting immunity.
Are vaccines safe? What are common side effects?
Yes. Vaccines approved by the Indian government have undergone rigorous safety testing. Common, mild side effects include low-grade fever, redness or swelling at the injection site, and fussiness — these typically resolve within 1–2 days. Serious adverse events are extremely rare. Paracetamol (Calpol) in appropriate baby doses can help manage fever — ask your doctor for the dose based on your baby's weight.
What is the PCV (Pneumococcal) vaccine?
PCV protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, which cause pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections — leading causes of under-5 deaths in India. It is given at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, with a booster at 9 months. It's classified as "optional" in UIP but is mandatory in IAP's private sector schedule and strongly recommended by most paediatricians.
👩⚕️ What Paediatricians Say About Vaccination Timing
The IAP Advisory Committee on Vaccines & Immunisation Practices (ACVIP) updates India's childhood vaccination schedule every year. The 2026 schedule distinguishes between government-mandated vaccines (free at government hospitals) and IAP-recommended vaccines like PCV, Hib, and rotavirus.
- Delaying vaccines even by 2–4 weeks beyond schedule increases infection risk during the most vulnerable window
- Combination vaccines (Pentavac, Pediacel, Hexaxim) reduce injections while maintaining full protection
- Premature babies should be vaccinated at chronological age, not corrected age
- Government hospitals provide all national programme vaccines free of cost