Pediatric parent guide • U.S. schedule (0–18 months)
U.S. Infant Vaccine Schedule (0–18 Months): A Complete Parent Guide
This page explains the routine vaccines recommended for babies in the United States from birth through 18 months, including what each vaccine protects against, common side effects, and when to call your pediatrician.
Best for: new parents, caregivers, daycare prep Includes: schedule table + FAQs
Source: CDC recommended immunization schedule
Why vaccines are given early
Babies have developing immune systems. The U.S. schedule is timed to protect infants before they’re most likely to be exposed to serious infections. Vaccines help prevent hospitalization, complications, and in some cases life-threatening disease.
- Built for safety and effectiveness at each age based on immune response.
- Helps protect your baby and also reduces spread to vulnerable infants in the community.
- Staying on schedule gives the best protection during the highest-risk months.
Helpful note: If your baby misses an appointment, most vaccine series do not need to be restarted. Your pediatrician can use a catch-up schedule to get back on track safely.
What parents commonly ask
Is fever after vaccines normal?
Mild fever, fussiness, or soreness at the injection site can happen and typically improves within 24–48 hours. Contact your pediatrician if a high fever develops, symptoms last more than a couple of days, or your baby seems unusually hard to wake.
Can my baby get vaccines with a mild cold?
In most cases, yes. A runny nose, mild cough, or low-grade fever usually isn’t a reason to delay routine vaccines. Vaccines are typically postponed for moderate or severe illness.
Why does my baby get multiple shots at one visit?
Combining vaccines in early visits helps protect infants sooner and reduces the number of separate appointments. Babies’ immune systems handle daily exposure to many germs; vaccines add a small, controlled exposure to build protection.
| Baby’s Age | Vaccine | Protects Against |
|---|---|---|
| Birth |
Hepatitis B (HepB) Dose 1
|
Hepatitis B (serious liver infection) |
| 1–2 months |
Hepatitis B (HepB) Dose 2
|
Hepatitis B |
| 2 months |
DTaP Dose 1 Hib Dose 1 IPV Dose 1 PCV (PCV13/PCV15) Dose 1 Rotavirus (oral) Dose 1
|
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough) • Hib (meningitis, pneumonia) • Polio • Pneumococcal disease • Rotavirus (severe diarrhea & dehydration) |
| 4 months |
DTaP Dose 2 Hib Dose 2 IPV Dose 2 PCV Dose 2 Rotavirus (oral) Dose 2
|
Same as the 2-month series (boosted protection) |
| 6 months |
DTaP Dose 3 PCV Dose 3 Hepatitis B Dose 3 Hib / IPV / Rotavirus (brand-dependent) Influenza (yearly begins)
|
Continued protection against DTaP, pneumococcal disease, hepatitis B • Flu protection begins at 6 months and is recommended yearly |
| 12–15 months |
MMR Dose 1 Varicella Dose 1 Hib Final PCV Final Hepatitis A Dose 1
|
Measles, mumps, rubella • Chickenpox • Hib disease • Pneumococcal disease • Hepatitis A |
| 15–18 months |
DTaP Dose 4
|
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (booster dose) |
| 18 months |
Hepatitis A Dose 2
|
Hepatitis A (completes the series) |
Quick safety checklist for parents
- Mild fever or fussiness can be normal after shots and usually improves within 1–2 days.
- If your baby has a mild cold, vaccines can often still be given. Ask your pediatrician if unsure.
- Keep a simple vaccine record on your phone or in a folder for daycare and travel.
Medical note: This content is for general education and does not replace medical advice. Always follow your child’s pediatrician and local public health guidance.
