A Parent's Guide to the Childhood Vaccine Schedule

Vaccines are scheduled around the times when children are most vulnerable to specific diseases and when their immune systems will respond most effectively.

The first year includes protection against hepatitis B, rotavirus, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and more, spread across several well-child visits. Boosters continue through the preschool years and adolescence.

It's normal for children to have mild soreness or a low fever after a vaccine. Serious reactions are rare. Bring any questions to your child's well-child visit; there's no such thing as a small question when it comes to your child's health.