What Every Parent Should Know 💉🤍
When your baby is born in the United States, one of the most important parts of early care is vaccination.
Vaccines protect newborns from serious infectious diseases during their most vulnerable months of life.
For many new parents—especially international families—understanding which vaccines are given, when, and why can feel overwhelming.
Here’s a clear and gentle guide from MiraBaby Resolution to help you navigate your baby’s first vaccinations in the U.S. 💛
👶 The First Vaccines After Birth
Right after delivery, U.S. hospitals usually administer the first vaccines while your baby is still in the newborn nursery.
Let’s look at what to expect in the first days and months:
💉 1. Hepatitis B Vaccine (HepB)
- Timing: First dose within 24 hours after birth
- Why it matters: Protects against Hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that can be transmitted during birth or through contact with infected blood or fluids.
- Follow-up doses:
- 2nd dose: at 1–2 months old
- 3rd dose: at 6–18 months old
💧 2. Vitamin K Injection (not a vaccine, but essential)
- Timing: Within the first few hours after birth
- Purpose: Prevents dangerous bleeding in newborns caused by Vitamin K deficiency.
- Note: This is given as a simple injection and is not optional in most U.S. hospitals for safety reasons.
👁️ 3. Erythromycin Eye Ointment (also not a vaccine)
- Timing: Soon after birth
- Purpose: Protects baby’s eyes from potential infection during delivery.
- Note: Usually applied automatically in the delivery room.
🩺 Vaccines During the First 2 Months
After you bring your baby home, the next stage of vaccines typically happens at the 2-month check-up.
These protect your baby from multiple serious diseases early in life.
At around 2 months, your baby will receive:
- DTaP – Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Whooping cough)
- Hib – Haemophilus influenzae type b
- IPV – Polio
- PCV15 or PCV20 – Pneumococcal conjugate (prevents lung and ear infections)
- RV – Rotavirus (given orally, protects against severe diarrhea)
- Hepatitis B (second dose)
🌍 For International Families
If your baby will travel outside the U.S. before completing all doses, ask your pediatrician for a vaccine summary record.
This record can help your home-country doctor continue the schedule smoothly.
Vaccines are a simple yet powerful way to protect your baby’s health from the very beginning.
They are part of a global effort to prevent diseases that once caused serious illness in children.
Every gentle step — every drop, every shot — is a layer of protection and love.
Your baby’s wellness journey starts with safety, care, and your devoted heart. 💕