Vaccination Chart for New Born 6- to 8-Week-Old Baby

A newborn's immune system is still developing, which is why vaccinations begin early in life to help protect against serious infections. The first vaccines are usually given at birth, while the next important set is administered around 6 to 8 weeks of age as part of the recommended baby vaccination schedule.

Following a timely newborn baby vaccine chart helps ensure your baby receives the right protection at every stage of early growth. If you're a new parent, there's no need to worry, your paediatrician will guide you through the entire infant vaccination schedule and answer any questions along the way.

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Baby's Vaccine Schedule: Birth to 6–8 Weeks

1. BCG (H3)

• What it protects against: severe forms of tuberculosis (TB), especially TB meningitis in infants
• When given: at birth, usually before hospital discharge
• Practical note: leaves a small mark/scar at the injection site over time a common thing new parents notice and ask about, good to reassure it's normal
  

2. OPV-0 (Oral Polio Vaccine) (H3)

• What it protects against: poliovirus
• When given: right after birth
• Practical note: given as oral drops, not an injection; next dose follows around 6-8 weeks

3. Hepatitis B (Birth Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: Hepatitis B infection
• When given: ideally within 24 hours of birth
• Practical note: mention why the 24-hour window matters (most effective at preventing transmission when given early)
  

4. DTwP/DTaP (1^st Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough)
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: given via injection; mild fever or soreness at injection site is common afterward

5. Hib (1^st Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: Haemophilus influenzae type b can cause meningitis, pneumonia
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: often combined with other vaccines in a single injection (pentavalent), good to mention so parents aren't confused by multiple names

6. IPV (1^st Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: poliovirus (injectable form, works alongside oral dose)
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: complements OPV for stronger polio protection

7. PCV (1^st Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: especially important for reducing serious respiratory infections in infancy

8. Rotavirus (1^st Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: severe rotavirus diarrhoea, a common cause of infant hospitalisation
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: given orally, not via injection

9. Hepatitis B (2^nd Dose) (H3)

• What it protects against: continued/boosted Hepatitis B protection
• When given: 6-8 weeks
• Practical note: reinforce that this is a booster following the birth dose, part of a multi-dose series

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How Are These Vaccines Given?

Vaccines for newborns and young infants are administered either as injections or oral drops, depending on the type of vaccine. Oral vaccines are given directly into the baby's mouth, while injectable vaccines are administered into the thigh muscle, which is the recommended site for infants.

During the 6- to 8-week vaccination visit, some vaccines, such as the Rotavirus vaccine, are typically given as oral drops. Other vaccines are administered as injections to provide protection against multiple serious diseases.

Parents are often surprised when their baby receives more than one injection during the same appointment. This is a standard practice and is recommended to ensure timely protection while reducing the number of clinic visits required.

To minimise the number of injections, paediatricians may recommend combination vaccines such as the Pentavalent vaccine (which protects against five diseases) or the Hexavalent vaccine (which protects against six diseases). These vaccines help simplify the infant vaccination schedule while providing broad protection.

Most vaccination appointments are quick and typically take 15 to 30 minutes, including the consultation, vaccine administration, and a brief observation period after vaccination. Your paediatrician will explain each vaccine and guide you through any necessary aftercare instructions.

Are These Vaccines Safe for Babies?

Yes. Vaccines recommended for newborns and young infants undergo extensive safety testing before approval and are continuously monitored after use. They are recommended by recognised health authorities because their benefits in preventing serious diseases far outweigh the risks.

While mild side effects can occur, serious reactions are extremely rare. If you have any concerns about your baby's vaccinations, speak with your paediatrician for personalised guidance.

What Side Effects Are Expected After Vaccination?

Most babies experience only mild, temporary side effects after vaccination, including:

• Mild fever
• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Fussiness or irritability
• Sleepiness
• Reduced appetite

These reactions usually resolve within 24-48 hours and are often a sign that the immune system is responding to the vaccine. Contact your paediatrician if your baby develops a high fever, persistent crying, breathing difficulties, or any other concerning symptoms.

What Happens If a Baby Misses a Vaccine?

Missing a vaccine does not usually mean your baby has to restart the entire immunisation schedule. In most cases, the missed dose can be given later through a catch-up vaccination plan.

It is important to schedule the missed vaccine as soon as possible and consult your paediatrician for guidance. Completing all recommended doses helps ensure your baby receives the best possible protection against preventable diseases.

Consult a Paediatrician

Questions to Ask Your Paediatrician During Your Baby's Vaccination Visit

A vaccination appointment is a great opportunity to better understand your baby's immunisation schedule and address any concerns you may have. Asking the right questions can help you feel more confident about your baby's care and the baby vaccination schedule ahead.

Consider asking your paediatrician:

• Is a painless vaccine an option for my baby's vaccination?
• Which vaccines is my baby receiving today?
• What side effects are normal after vaccination?
• Can I breastfeed or feed my baby immediately after vaccination?
• How should I care for my baby after the vaccine?
• When should I call a doctor after vaccination?
• What if my baby misses a scheduled vaccine?
• When is my baby's next vaccination due?

Why Choose Cloudnine for Your Baby's Vaccinations?

At Cloudnine, your baby's vaccinations are administered by experienced paediatricians and trained nursing staff in a safe, child-friendly environment. We follow recommended immunisation schedules and evidence-based practices to ensure timely protection at every stage of your baby's development.

From explaining the baby vaccination schedule to providing vaccine counselling and aftercare guidance, our experts offer personalised support before and after every vaccination visit. With a focus on comfort, safety, and quality care, Cloudnine helps make your baby's immunisation journey smooth and reassuring for parents.