Babies' First Vaccinations: A Small Needle, Great Protection

Babies' first vaccinations are crucial for protecting them from dangerous diseases. Vaccines help the baby's immune system develop resistance against these diseases.

According to the National Immunization Program implemented in Turkey, the vaccinations are as follows:

At birth:

Hepatitis B Vaccine

1st Month:

Hepatitis B Vaccine

2nd Month:

BCG (Tuberculosis) Vaccine

Pentavalent Vaccine (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Inactivated Polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b Vaccine)

Conjugate Pneumococcal Vaccine

4th Month:

Pentavalent Vaccine

Conjugate Pneumococcal Vaccine

6th Month:

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Pentavalent Vaccine

Oral Polio Vaccine

9th Month:

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

12th Month:

MMR Vaccine

Varicella Vaccine

Conjugate Pneumococcal Vaccine

18th Month:

Pentavalent Vaccine

Oral Polio Vaccine

Hepatitis A Vaccine

24th Month:

Hepatitis A Vaccine

48th Month:

MMR Vaccine

Quadrivalent Vaccine (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Inactivated Polio Vaccine)

13 Years:

Diphtheria, Tetanus Vaccine

Special Vaccines:

Special vaccines are not included in the Ministry of Health's routine vaccination program but are recommended for specific age groups or individuals at risk.

Rotavirus Vaccine:

Rotavirus is a virus that can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting in babies and young children.

The rotavirus vaccine helps prevent this disease in babies.

It is usually started at 2 months of age and administered in 2 or 3 doses depending on the type of vaccine.

Meningitis Vaccines:

Meningitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis can result from an infection caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria (e.g., meningococcus, pneumococcus), viruses, and fungi.

Meningitis vaccines provide protection against meningococcal bacteria.

These vaccines can be administered at any time but are usually started in early infancy and completed during childhood.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine:

HPV infection can cause certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine helps prevent infections caused by this virus and related cancers. HPV vaccines are generally recommended for individuals aged 9 to 45. The vaccine is usually administered in adolescence (around 11-12 years old) or earlier.

However, it can also be administered to adults, especially if they are at risk or have not been previously vaccinated.

Importance of Vaccines:

Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect babies. Thanks to vaccines, many diseases have been brought under control or completely eradicated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vaccines:

Do vaccines cause autism?

No, there is no evidence that vaccines cause autism.

Do vaccines weaken the immune system of babies?

No, vaccines do not weaken the immune system of babies. On the contrary, they help strengthen the immune system.

Do vaccines have side effects?

Vaccines may have some side effects, but they are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects include fever, pain, and redness at the injection site.

Concerning Vaccine Refusal:

Choosing not to vaccinate your baby can put them at risk of serious diseases. Vaccine refusal not only endangers your baby but also puts other people in the community at risk.

If you have concerns about vaccines, it is important to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional. Your doctor can provide you with information about the benefits and risks of vaccines and help address your concerns.

Dr. Cansu Özkoçer