That little helpless newborn is becoming more and more mature by the day. And by the time they’re 2 months old, they'll be smiling and cooing at you when they're well-rested.

They may be holding they're head up for longer stretches during tummy-time. This month, your baby’s 1st BIG round of vaccines is due.

In their first 2 years, your baby will receive vaccines that protect them against 14 serious diseases. Here’s more about what shots your child will receive at the 2-month appointment, what side effects they may experience, and what you can do to ease any discomfort.

DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis vaccine)

DPT is a combination vaccine to protect against Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (whooping cough). Prevents your child from developing a thick coating in the back of the nose or throat from diphtheria that can make it hard to breathe or swallow.

Site and dosage of the DPT Vaccine

The dosage is 0.5 ml and the route is intramuscular at the anterolateral side of mid-thigh.

Can DPT be given along with other vaccines?

DPT can be given along with any other vaccines. In fact, it is given along with OPV, Hepatitis B & Hib vaccine. A combination vaccine containing DPT + Hib and DPT + Hepatitis B is available. Side effects of the DPT Vaccine These include pain, swelling, redness & difficulty in moving legs. It is seen in 30-40% of vaccines. It persists for 24-72 hours & responds to paracetamol. Sometimes a nodule forms at the injection site, which may persist for several days to weeks. It may soften and form a sterile abscess. If it shows fluctuation, it can be drained.

Side effects

• A fever over 105 degrees.
• Non-stop crying for 3 hours or more.
• Seizures (jerking, twitching of the muscles, or staring).

IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine)

The vaccine offers protection against polio, which can cause paralysis and death.

Site and dosage of the IPV Vaccine

The dosage is 0.5 ml and is given in the intramuscular the at anterolateral side mid-high.

Side effects

• Fever and redness or soreness at the injection site.
• There is a very small chance of an allergic reaction.

Hepatitis B (HB)

The hepatitis B shot is very safe and is effective at preventing hepatitis B.

Site and dosage of the Hepatitis Vaccine

The dosage is 0.5 ml and the route is intramuscular at the anterolateral side of mid-thigh.

Interval between doses

• At least four (4) weeks between doses 1 and 2
• At least eight (8) weeks between doses 2 and 3
• At least 16 weeks between doses 1 and 3

Rotavirus

The rotavirus vaccine protects against rotavirus disease. The virus can cause severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. Children who get rotavirus disease can become dehydrated and may need to be hospitalised.

Site and dosage of the Rotavirus vaccine

Rotavirus vaccine is given orally. The dosage is 5 drops. Side effects of IPV vaccine Being irritable or having mild, temporary diarrhoea, or vomiting after getting a dose of rotavirus vaccine.

Side effects

There is a small risk of intussusception, a type of bowel blockage that is treated in a hospital, that could require surgery. Intussusception from rotavirus vaccination usually occurs within a week of receiving a dose of the vaccine. The risk of intussusception from rotavirus vaccination is estimated to range from about 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 100,000.

PCV 1 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)

Pneumococcal disease is caused by bacteria. It can lead to infections in the lungs, blood, and brain. This includes meningitis, blood infections, and ear infections.

Site and dosage of the PCV Vaccine

The dosage is 0.5 ml and the route is intramuscular at the anterolateral side of mid-thigh.

Side effects

• Tenderness or swelling at the site of the shot
• Mild fever
• Fussiness
• Tiredness
• Poor appetite
• Vomiting

How do I care for my baby after vaccination?

• Sometimes children have mild reactions from vaccines, such as pain at the injection site or a rash. These reactions are normal and will soon go away. Still, the following techniques may soothe your baby.
• Swaddle.
• Offer breastmilk or formula more often. It is normal for some babies to eat less during the 24 hours after getting vaccines.
• Pay extra attention to your baby for a few days. If you see something that concerns you, call your baby’s doctor.
• Use a cool, damp cloth or an ice cube folded in a soft cloth to help reduce redness, soreness, and/or swelling at the injection site.
• Ask your paediatrician for the medicines to be given for fever and to relieve pain.