A Simple Guide to the Child Vaccine Schedule
Keeping your child healthy starts with staying on track with vaccines. Vaccines help protect kids from serious diseases like measles, chickenpox, and whooping cough. But knowing when your child needs each shot can feel confusing.
Good news: we’ve made it simple! Below is a quick look at when kids need their vaccines based on the latest guidelines from the CDC.
📅 Birth to 6 Years
Most vaccines are given during regular checkups from birth to age 6. Here are some of the main ones:
- At birth: Hepatitis B (first dose)
- 2, 4, and 6 months: Shots for rotavirus, polio, DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough), Hib, and more
- 12-15 months: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), chickenpox, and more
- 4-6 years: Booster doses for MMR, polio, and DTaP
DOWNLOAD: Recommended immunization for birth through 6 years old in the United States (pdf)
🧒 7 to 18 Years
Older kids still need protection too! These vaccines are usually given during school-age and teen years:
- 11-12 years: Tdap booster, HPV vaccine, and meningitis shot
- 16-18 years: Second meningitis shot and other catch-up vaccines if needed
🩺 Why Vaccines Matter
Vaccines help your child stay healthy—and they help protect others in your family and community too. Some diseases, like measles, can spread quickly in schools and daycare. Getting vaccinated keeps everyone safer.
💡 Tips to Stay on Track
- Schedule regular checkups
- Ask your child’s doctor what shots are due
- Keep a vaccine record at home
Need help catching up on vaccines?
Our clinics offer vaccines for kids and teens—and we accept Medicaid, offer a sliding fee scale, and work with most insurance plans. Schedule an appointment today and protect your child’s future.
Pediatric Care at Primary Health Care
Primary Health Care provides care for babies, children, and teens.
Our pediatric providers offer:
- newborn care
- well-child visits
- vaccines
- care for illness or injuries
- behavioral health support when needed
We accept many insurance plans, including Medicaid, and offer a sliding fee scale for patients who qualify. Click here to learn more about our Pediatric Care department.
Schedule Your Child’s Immunizations
If you recently welcomed a baby or a child due for their vaccine, our team is here to help.
Contact Primary Health Care to schedule your kiddo’s checkup.
Related Posts
Sick Visit vs. Well Visit: What’s the Difference?
Learn the difference between sick visits and well-child visits, and when to schedule each for your child.
What Happens at Your Baby’s First Doctor Visit
Your baby’s first doctor visit usually happend within a few days after leaving the hospital. Learn what to expect, what the doctor will check, and how this visit helps support your baby’s health and development.
How to Choose a Pediatrician for Your New Baby
Choosing a pediatrician is an important step before your baby arrives. Learn what to look for, when to start your search, and how to find a provider who is right for your family.
Big Teeth, Big Responsibility: Helping Kids Care for Their New Permanent Teeth
When kids start getting their permanent teeth, it’s more than just a milestone—it’s a chance to build habits that boost their health and confidence. From fresh breath to fewer cavities, good oral hygiene pays off right now in ways your child will notice every day. Here’s how to help them take care of their new smile.
Back to School and Up to Date: August Is National Immunization Awareness Month
August is National Immunization Awareness Month. It is also back to school season. Here are the immunization your child needs to be back to school ready in Iowa.
Celebrating National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month
February is National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month, a time to recognize the vital role that school-based health centers (SBHCs) play in supporting student health and academic success. By providing accessible, on-site medical and behavioral health services,...
Supporting New Mothers: Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges with Primary Health Care
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial practice, but many new mothers encounter challenges such as difficulties with baby latching and concerns about milk supply. Studies indicate that approximately 31% of mothers stop breastfeeding due to perceived insufficient...
Challenges in Maternal Health
Pregnancy-related problems are a serious issue in the United States. These problems affect different groups of people in different ways. If you or someone you love is pregnant, getting prenatal care as early as possible in the pregnancy will improve health outcomes...
Group Prenatal Care at PHC
Centering Pregnancy Joining Forces for Group Prenatal Care and Shared ExperiencesWhen: First class starts on April 8, 2024 Where: PHC's East Side Clinic How to sign-up: Let your provider know that you are interested. Starting March 2024, Primary Health Care's...
Introducing Dr. Jennifer Groos, Pediatrician
Introducing Jennifer Groos, MD, FAAP: Experienced Pediatrician at BEC MedicalJennifer Groos, MD, FAAP, is a highly skilled and board-certified pediatrician with over 16 years of expertise. She is a valued member of our team at BEC Medical, dedicated to providing...