The Importance of Childhood Immunizations: A Guide for Parents

Keeping your child on track with their immunizations is one of the most important ways to protect their health. At Fort HealthCare, we’re committed to providing parents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their child’s healthcare. Below is a detailed guide to the immunization schedule recommended for children from birth through adolescence.

Immunization Schedule

Birth:

• Hepatitis B #1

2 Months:

• Rotavirus #1
• Pneumococcal #1
• Pediarix #1 (DTaP #1, Hepatitis B #2, Polio #1)
• HIB #1

4 Months:

• Rotavirus #2
• Pneumococcal #2
• Pediarix #2 (DTaP #2, HEP B {extra dose}, Polio #2)
• HIB #2

6 Months:

• Pneumococcal #3
• Pediarix #3 (DTaP #3, HEP B #4, Polio #3)
• HIB #3

9 Months:

• No vaccines unless behind

12 Months:

• Hepatitis A #1
• Varicella #1
• MMR #1
• Pneumococcal #4

15 Months:

• DTaP #4
• HIB #4

18 Months:

• Hepatitis A #2

2 Years:

• Hepatitis A #2 (if not received at 18 months)

4-5 Years:

• Kinrix (DTaP #5, Polio #4)
• MMR #2
• Varicella #2

9 Years:

• HPV #1 (2 doses: age 9-14 or 3 doses: age 15-26)

11 Years:

• TDaP #1
• Meningococcal ACWY #1
• Catch up (HPV) as needed

16 Years:

• Meningococcal ACWY #2
• Meningococcal B #1 (2 dose series) *
• Catch up (HPV) as needed

*Recommended for college bound teens 16-18 years old

Additional Immunizations

• Influenza: Annually starting at 6 months (Patients 8 and under who have received only 1 dose need booster 4 weeks after first dose)
• RSV: (Birth to 8 months) ask provider if needed
• COVID-19 (6 months +) ask provider if needed

Why Immunizations Matter

Vaccinations are essential for preventing diseases that can affect your child’s health. When children are not vaccinated, they are more likely to contract diseases and spread them to others, including vulnerable populations such as babies and people with weakened immune systems. By following the recommended immunization schedule, you protect both your child and broader communities.

Your Partner in Health

At Fort HealthCare, we are here to support you and your family through every stage of your child’s development, ensuring they receive the best possible care. For more information on immunizations, parents should check with their child’s doctor, school, or the local health department to learn more about the requirements in their area.