2 year old doctor visit shots

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Age Groups and Vaccines: Birth to 2 Years

Vaccine education center, preparing for vaccines.

While it is difficult to watch your child receive shots, certain things can be done to make the experience easier. First, remember that you are protecting your child from a disease or diseases that would be much more painful and longer lasting than a shot. Second, by being prepared for the visit, you will be more comfortable and relaxed; your child will detect this.

To prepare yourself

• Bring your child's immunization record to the visit with you, particularly if your child is getting vaccinated somewhere other than at their doctor’s office.
• Write down any questions you have and bring the list with you to the visit. You can also use the free Vaccines on the Go mobile app for recording your questions (In the “Connect” section under “Save notes or questions”).
• Be sure to ask vaccine-related questions before the office staff comes in with the vaccine. Usually, vaccines are given after a physical examination and discussion with the parents.
• Read the Vaccine Information Sheets and any other materials that the office staff provides to you.

To prepare your infant or toddler

• Bring along a favorite toy or blanket.
• Talk reassuringly to your child. Also, make eye contact with, smile at, and cuddle your child leading up to and immediately following the immunizations.
• Talk with the office staff on how to best hold your child during the immunization to keep your child most comfortable and safe. 

In addition, for toddlers:

• Consider using this CARD handout to ensure a more positive experience for your child.  The CARD system encourages planning ahead to be prepared when it comes to C omforting your child, A sking questions, R elaxing yourself and your child, and D istracting your child if they are apprehensive .  
• Be honest with your child, explaining that it may hurt a bit, but it will not hurt for long. Also, explain that vaccines keep us healthy. 
• Reassure your child that it is all right to cry if it hurts and that it will be over quickly.
• Engage your child in a conversation or storybook.
• If your child is old enough to understand, have the office staff rub an alcohol pad on the back of her hand or arm immediately before giving the shot. Right when the shot is ready to be given, have your child blow on the alcohol-swabbed spot. The action of blowing on the alcohol will produce a feeling of cold that will lessen the sensation of pain.

Remember, taking your children to get vaccines is an act of love. You are protecting them from something much worse than the pain of the shot.

After the vaccines

When you get home, try to comfort your child and realize that they may be more tired or cranky than usual. They may want to be held more and may be sore in the arm or leg where the shot was given. If the area where the shot was given is red, tender or swollen, you can use ice on the area, and encourage ongoing playing and movement. Give your child plenty of fluids and be aware that they may be less interested in food over the next 24 hours.

Because fevers are part of the immune response, it is most often not recommended that they be treated. If you have questions, talk with your child’s doctor. Find out more about fevers on this Q&A sheet.

Watch your child for signs of a reaction from the vaccine including a rash, prolonged fever, or unusual behaviors. If you have any reason for concern, call your child’s doctor who can tell you what to expect and what to do.

While most side effects are minor, if your child has a severe reaction, you or your child's doctor can file a report to the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System or VAERS .

Other Resources

• Schedule of recommended vaccines
• Specific vaccines and the diseases they prevent
• Special considerations for new and expectant moms, including preterm infants
• "Vaccines and Your Baby" video describes how vaccines work, how they are made and discusses each vaccine that your baby may receive
• Infectious diseases and fever: What you should know

Visit our Pinterest page related to newborn and infant vaccines for more resources.

Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Vaccine Education Center staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.

You should not consider the information in this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family's personal health. You should not use it to replace any relationship with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult your physician or, in serious cases, seek immediate assistance from emergency personnel.

Doctor Visits

Make the Most of Your Child’s Visit to the Doctor (Ages 1 to 4 Years)

Take Action

Young children need to go to the doctor or nurse for a “well-child visit” 7 times between ages 1 and 4.

A well-child visit is when you take your child to the doctor to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally. This is different from other visits for sickness or injury.

At a well-child visit, the doctor or nurse can help catch any problems early, when they may be easier to treat. You’ll also have a chance to ask questions about things like your child’s behavior, eating habits, and sleeping habits.

Learn what to expect so you can make the most of each visit.

Well-Child Visits

How often do i need to take my child for well-child visits.

Young children grow quickly, so they need to visit the doctor or nurse regularly to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally.

Children ages 1 to 4 need to see the doctor or nurse when they’re:

• 12 months old
• 15 months old (1 year and 3 months)
• 18 months old (1 year and 6 months)
• 24 months old (2 years)
• 30 months old (2 years and 6 months)
• 3 years old
• 4 years old

If you’re worried about your child’s health, don’t wait until the next scheduled visit — call the doctor or nurse right away.

Child Development

How do i know if my child is growing and developing on schedule.

Your child’s doctor or nurse can help you understand how your child is developing and learning to do new things — like walk and talk. These are sometimes called  “developmental milestones.”

Every child grows and develops differently. For example, some children will take longer to start talking than others. Learn more about child development .

At each visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you how you’re doing as a parent and what new things your child is learning to do.

Ages 12 to 18 Months

By age 12 months, most kids:.

• Stand by holding on to something
• Walk with help, like by holding on to the furniture
• Call a parent "mama," "dada," or some other special name
• Look for a toy they've seen you hide

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 12 months .

By age 15 months, most kids:

• Follow simple directions, like "Pick up the toy"
• Show you a toy they like
• Try to use things they see you use, like a cup or a book
• Take a few steps on their own

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 15 months.

By age 18 months, most kids:

• Make scribbles with crayons
• Look at a few pages in a book with you
• Try to say 3 or more words besides “mama” or “dada”
• Point to show someone what they want
• Walk on their own
• Try to use a spoon

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 18 months . 

Ages 24 to 30 Months

By age 24 months (2 years), most kids:.

• Notice when others are hurt or upset
• Point to at least 2 body parts, like their nose, when asked
• Try to use knobs or buttons on a toy
• Kick a ball

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 24 months . 

By age 30 months, most kids:

• Name items in a picture book, like a cat or dog
• Play simple games with other kids, like tag
• Jump off the ground with both feet
• Take some clothes off by themselves, like loose pants or an open jacket

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 30 months .

Ages 3 to 4 Years

By age 3 years, most kids:.

• Calm down within 10 minutes after you leave them, like at a child care drop-off
• Draw a circle after you show them how
• Ask “who,” “what,” “where,” or “why” questions, like “Where is Daddy?”

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 3 years . 

By age 4 years, most kids:

• Avoid danger — for example, they don’t jump from tall heights at the playground
• Pretend to be something else during play, like a teacher, superhero, or dog
• Draw a person with 3 or more body parts
• Catch a large ball most of the time

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 4 years . 

Take these steps to help you and your child get the most out of well-child visits.

Gather important information.

Bring any medical records you have to the appointment, including a record of vaccines (shots) your child has received.

Make a list of any important changes in your child’s life since the last doctor’s visit, like a:

• New brother or sister
• Serious illness or death in the family
• Separation or divorce
• Change in child care

Use this tool to  keep track of your child’s family health history .

Ask other caregivers about your child.

Before you visit the doctor, talk with others who care for your child, like a grandparent, daycare provider, or babysitter. They may be able to help you think of questions to ask the doctor or nurse.

What about cost?

Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans must cover well-child visits. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get well-child visits at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company to find out more.

Your child may also qualify for free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Learn about coverage options for your family.

If you don’t have insurance, you may still be able to get free or low-cost well-child visits. Find a health center near you and ask about well-child visits.

To learn more, check out these resources:

• Free preventive care for children covered by the Affordable Care Act
• How the Affordable Care Act protects you and your family
• Understanding your health insurance and how to use it [PDF - 698 KB]

Ask Questions

Make a list of questions you want to ask the doctor..

Before the well-child visit, write down 3 to 5 questions you have. This visit is a great time to ask the doctor or nurse any questions about:

• A health condition your child has (like asthma or an allergy)
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• How to help kids in the family get along

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• Is my child up to date on vaccines?
• How can I make sure my child is getting enough physical activity?
• Is my child at a healthy weight?
• How can I help my child try different foods?
• What are appropriate ways to discipline my child?
• How much screen time is okay for young children?

Take a notepad, smartphone, or tablet and write down the answers so you remember them later.

Ask what to do if your child gets sick. 

Make sure you know how to get in touch with a doctor or nurse when the office is closed. Ask how to get hold of the doctor on call — or if there's a nurse information service you can call at night or during the weekend. 

What to Expect

Know what to expect..

During each well-child visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your child, do a physical exam, and update your child's medical history. You'll also be able to ask your questions and discuss any problems you may be having.

The doctor or nurse will ask questions about your child.

The doctor or nurse may ask about:

• Behavior — Does your child have trouble following directions?
• Health — Does your child often complain of stomachaches or other kinds of pain?
• Activities — What types of pretend play does your child like?
• Eating habits — What does your child eat on a normal day?
• Family — Have there been any changes in your family since your last visit?

They may also ask questions about safety, like:

• Does your child always ride in a car seat in the back seat of the car? 
• Does anyone in your home have a gun? If so, is it unloaded and locked in a place where your child can’t get it?
• Is there a swimming pool or other water around your home?
• What steps have you taken to childproof your home? Do you have gates on stairs and latches on cabinets?

Your answers to questions like these will help the doctor or nurse make sure your child is healthy, safe, and developing normally.

Physical Exam

The doctor or nurse will also check your child’s body..

To check your child’s body, the doctor or nurse will:

• Measure your child’s height and weight
• Check your child’s blood pressure
• Check your child’s vision
• Check your child’s body parts (this is called a physical exam)
• Give your child shots they need

Learn more about your child’s health care:

• Find out how to get your child’s shots on schedule
• Learn how to take care of your child’s vision

Content last updated February 2, 2024

Reviewer Information

This information on well-child visits was adapted from materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health.

Reviewed by: Sara Kinsman, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

Bethany Miller, M.S.W. Chief, Adolescent Health Branch Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

Diane Pilkey, R.N., M.P.H. Nursing Consultant, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

You may also be interested in:

Help Your Child Stay at a Healthy Weight

Get Your Child’s Vision Checked

Healthy Snacks: Quick Tips for Parents

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Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by ODPHP or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.

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Parents say: Making doctor visits and shots easier for your preschooler

Play it down

Tell your child what to expect, help your child view the doctor's office as a friendly place, give lots of praise, bring on the treats, use a numbing cream, the secret to getting shots.

By age 2, young children have growing awareness that a visit to the doctor's office is likely to include an unpleasant procedure, such as a shot. And if they're sick, they're probably in no mood to be reasoned with. Find out how other parents comfort and reassure their children before, during, and after a trip to the doctor.

My son is 2. To make immunizations easier, I try not to make a big deal of it. If I warn him a few seconds before the shot that there will be a little prick and then it will be over, and follow up with a cuddle, he forgets it swiftly. However, if I make a big deal of it, he wails for an hour. I only did that once! — June O

I explained to my children that a shot is another way to get medicine they need into their bodies. They were familiar with chewing pain medication tablets, so this was not a big leap for them. Then they could be happy that shots were given so infrequently. The focus changed from "Why do we ever have to get any shots?" to "Aren't we glad we only need about 12 shots in our lives?!" I believe if a person understands a scary thing, it reduces the fear somewhat. — Tracey

I discovered a rash on my daughter Megan a few weeks ago. It wasn't bugging her, but I told her she had a rash. On the way to the doctor's office I explained to her that the doctor would want to look at her rash. When he walked through the door, she said hi to him and pulled up her shirt to show him the rash. She didn't cry at all and he was able to examine her easily. Now, I just explain what's going to happen at the office and she's fine. I wish I had figured that out a long time ago. — Christina

I tell them in advance what's going to happen and I stick to the truth. If it's going to hurt, I say so and tell them it's only going to hurt for a short time. Our doctor lets them touch the instruments and get familiar with any equipment before doing anything. This way they don't have to deal with the unknown and be afraid of nasty surprises. — Cassiopeia

My son is 2 and is completely fine with doctor visits when I talk it up the day before. I try to be enthusiastic, saying, "Hey, you get to see Dr. G. tomorrow! Make sure you give him a high five!" Seriously, then he starts getting excited about high-fiving the doctor. No tears...nothing. He didn't even flinch during a blood test. If I just show up at the doctor without saying anything ahead of time, he freaks out. I only made that mistake once. — AmberM

My daughter and I arrive at the doctor's office just in time for the appointment, not early. For that long wait in the tiny examining room, I make sure that I have a favorite toy and a snack/drink. We sing and cuddle and talk about all of the things in the room. I let her touch anything she wants except the dreaded "medical waste can." We even wash her hands in the sink. After the nurse gets the necessary information, we undress, counting toes and fingers and doing the "head, shoulders, knees, and toes" song. I make sure that I tell the doctor a funny story about her, so that as she gets older, he'll be more likely to remember her (this has worked well with her older brothers). — Glenna

When I take my son to the doctor's office he's not scared at all. That's because the people who work there don't wear lab coats or anything like that; they wear normal shirts and jeans. I took pictures of everyone in the office holding either Tyler or Logan and I made a photo album and put their names under their picture. We look through it the day of the appointment. He knows everybody there and he just loves them. — Amy

My daughter was terrified of doctor visits, so I bought her a toy medical kit and taught her all about the instruments in it. We role-played doctor visits and practiced examining each other and her dolls. We also read some children's books on the subject. When she had to go to the doctor, I told her in advance what would happen and what she would see in the office. She took along her toy stethoscope and a stuffed animal for the doctor to examine. In the examining room, I had her hunt for the objects I had told her would be there, and the doctor examined the stuffed animal. Then my daughter got to "examine" the doctor with her own stethoscope. Doctor visits now go off without a hitch – she looks forward to them!" — Libby

I have three children, and I try to take them all with me to our family's doctor and dentist appointments. That way, each child is "the patient" less than half of the time, and they can see that the doctor's office is not necessarily a scary place. Sometimes someone gets a shot, but mostly not. — Tracey

My son is absolutely terrified of going to the doctor's. As soon as he sees the building, he starts to cry. So, to ease his anxiety, the morning of the visit I begin telling him about it; I tell him what the doctor is going to do and I let him practice on his stuffed animals. I go over this several times. And when we are actually there, as each task is done, I give him positive feedback by saying, "You did such a good job with that" or "You're such a big boy now." If he's there because he's sick, I keep telling him that the doctor is going to make him feel better. Also, to ease the pain of shots, I apply local anesthetic EMLA cream one hour before his visit. — Suzette

To ease the emotional distress of shots, I buy and wrap a small gift for my child. I keep it in my purse until she's in the exam room. Then I let her hold the package while the nurse prepares the injection. She continues to hold the gift with the free hand while the shot is being given and opens it as soon as the shot is over. It still hurts, but the gift helps distract her a little bit. — Tracey

When I take my daughter to get her shots, I bring a sticker and a fun bandage for her to wear after her shots are done. There are usually few, if any, tears. — Diesel

I let her wail at will, no "hushing" or trying to get her dressed again in a hurry. Kids need time to express the pain and betrayal that come with shots. I distract her after a couple of minutes with her drink. Then we get dressed, drop off the pre-written check, and make our getaway. We follow up with lots of hugs and kisses and a special treat at home (yes, something sweet!). — Glenna

My daughter got a doctor's kit for her 2nd birthday and loves to play with it. Ever since, she loves going to the doctor and lets the doctor do whatever needs to be done, because she has a better understanding of it. — Anonymous

The best thing we ever did was ask for numbing cream from our doctor. Now the shots don't hurt, so there's nothing to fear. I used it myself for the flu shot and didn't have any soreness afterward at all. Now my child looks forward to going to the doctor to play with the fun toys and see other kids. — Anonymous

I didn't mention shots to my 4-year-old until just before they happened. At that point, I told her I had the secret for making shots not hurt. "Just don't watch." I told her that if she didn't watch, it would just feel like a little pinch. After it was over, she told everyone her "secret" for getting shots. — Anonymous

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Safety & Prevention

Multiple Vaccinations at One Time

One of the most important ways parents protect their child's health is by keeping them up-to-date on immunizations. To make childhood vaccines as effective as possible, several of them are broken up into multiple doses scheduled to be given over time at specific ages. That's why, at some wellness visits , children may be due for a few different shots.

Some parents wonder if getting more than one shot at a time will cause them to interfere with each other, or be too much for their baby's immune system. But, rest assured, this is how immunizations are proven to work best to safely and effectively build your child's immunity against many serious illnesses.

Vaccine advances

Vaccines contain antigens . An antigen is anything that causes the immune system to respond, like bacteria, viruses, chemicals, or pollen. The antigens in vaccines are proteins or sugars made from bacteria, or proteins made from viruses.

Babies put everything they can get their hands on into their mouths. They play on the floor. They're also sometimes around people who are sick. Even the dust they inhale and the food they eat contains antigens. Translation: Your baby is exposed to antigens on a daily basis.

Safety of vaccines

Your child will need many vaccines before the age of 2 years. Some of them need to be given in more than one dose. This means that your child could have up to five shots at one office visit. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires scientists to carefully study vaccines before they are FDA-approved. One way they're tested is along with vaccines that have already been approved. This helps the researchers make sure that the vaccines don't affect each other and that they are safe to give together.

Vaccine Side effects

The possible side effects are the same whether your child has one shot or five. Common side effects are minimal and could include:

Soreness, redness, or swelling in the area the vaccine was given

Achy joints or muscles

For most kids, side effects are mild and go away quickly.

Timing of vaccines

It might seem like a lot to see your baby getting four or five shots at once. But keep in mind that scientists study these vaccines thoroughly. They are given at what scientific research has found to be the best times to protect kids from serious diseases. These illnesses can cause serious complications, like heart disease, hearing loss, and liver damage. They can even lead to death.

The recommended vaccination schedule is reviewed every year and approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Family Physicians. The CDC has parent-friendly vaccination schedules that shows when your child needs each vaccine.

Is it OK to delay vaccines?

What about asking your doctor to use an alternative schedule so you can spread your child's immunizations out? The problem with this is that you may be putting your child at more risk. Experts create the recommended vaccination schedule to coordinate with the times the vaccines will work best with kids' immune systems.

Babies are the most likely age group to be hospitalized or die from the diseases these vaccines protect them from. This is why it's important to vaccinate your child as soon as possible. If you delay or skip vaccines, your child won't be protected from these serious illnesses when they're the most vulnerable.

If you've fallen behind on your child's vaccinations, it's a good time to get caught up. Read more here . Don't hesitate to talk with your child's pediatrician about childhood immunizations if you have any questions.

More information

• Childhood Immunization Schedule: Why Is It Like That?
• Recommended Immunization Schedules
• Ask the Pediatrician: Why is it so important for my kids to get caught up on their childhood immunizations during the COVID-19 pandemic?

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What Baby Shots Does My Child Need?

Overview of vaccines.

• Vaccine Schedule
• Side Effects

Frequently Asked Questions

Your baby’s vaccination schedule may look complicated at first glance. There are several vaccines recommended for infants and young children. These vaccines are an important way for parents to keep their babies safe and healthy.  

This article will describe the vaccines recommended for children from birth to 4 years old. It will also cover the diseases that these vaccines protect against. 

The recommended immunization schedule for babies and children includes the following vaccines:

Hepatitis B

The hepatitis B vaccine series includes three shots that span from birth to 18 months old. This vaccine is recommended at birth because hepatitis B can be passed from a mother to her baby during childbirth. 

The hepatitis B vaccine protects against the virus hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a serious chronic liver disease that can lead to liver damage and liver cancer. Hepatitis B does not often cause symptoms, so it is possible to become infected without knowing it. 

Hepatitis B can be spread through contact with blood and from childbirth, open cuts, sharing toothbrushes, or chewing food for your child. Possible side effects of the hepatitis B vaccine include a low fever of less than 101 degrees Fahrenheit and a sore arm after the shot. 

The rotavirus vaccine is available as oral drops and in two-dose or three-dose schedules. This vaccine protects against rotavirus , a gastrointestinal virus that causes diarrhea , vomiting, and stomach pain. This virus is most common in babies and children. It can be dangerous because it often leads to dehydration. 

Rotavirus can be spread through the fecal-oral route. This means that individuals with rotavirus shed the virus in their feces, and when the virus particles enter another individual’s mouth, they can become sick. Children may be more at risk because they often place their hands in their mouths. Possible side effects of the rotavirus vaccine are rare and may include fussiness, diarrhea, and vomiting. 

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)

The DTaP vaccine has a six-dose schedule and is recommended at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15–18 months, 4–6 years, and 11– 12 years. This vaccine protects the three diseases diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. 

Diphtheria is an infection that causes a sore throat, fever, and chills. It can also lead to a thick coating over the back of the throat that makes it difficult to breathe and swallow. Diphtheria is very serious, and it’s estimated that every 1 in 5 children with the disease dies from it. It can spread when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes.

Tetanus is a serious disease that is caused by a toxin made by bacteria. It causes painful muscle contractions, lockjaw , difficulty swallowing, seizures , headache, fever, and changes in blood pressure. Tetanus cannot be spread from person to person. The bacteria that cause tetanus can be found in soil, dust, and manure, and enter the body through an open cut or sore. 

Pertussis , also known as whooping cough, is a serious respiratory infection that causes severe coughing fits. It is especially dangerous for babies and young children. Early symptoms include a runny nose and a mild cough. They can then progress to coughing fits, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and stopping breathing. Pertussis spreads through the air when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes. 

Most children do not experience side effects with the DTaP vaccine, but possible side effects include redness or pain at the injection site, fever, and vomiting. 

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib)

The Hib vaccine schedule includes four doses given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12–15 months. The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b infection that can lead to serious illness. Babies and children are most at risk of becoming sick from this bacterium and developing lifelong complications. 

The most common type of Hib disease is meningitis , an infection that affects the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Possible symptoms include a high fever, stiff neck, confusion, sensitivity to light, and an inability to eat or drink. Side effects of the vaccine are uncommon and may include fever or redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site.

Pneumococcal (PCV15, PCV20)

The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease and includes four doses given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12–15 months. The first dose may be given as young as 6 weeks of age. 

Pneumococcal disease causes infections in the lungs, ears, blood, and brain and includes pneumonia and pneumococcal meningitis. These illnesses are caused by a bacterium called pneumococcus and can range in severity from mild to deadly. 

Most children will not experience side effects from the vaccine, but possible side effects include fussiness, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, chills, headache, and soreness or redness at the injection site. 

Polio (IPV)

The polio vaccine is a four-dose vaccine given at 2 months, 4 months, 6–18 months, and 4–6 years. It protects against polio , a serious disease that can lead to paralysis. The virus affects the spinal cord and attacks the nervous system. Polio is very contagious and is spread through both respiratory droplets and particles in the stool. Side effects of the vaccine are not common and may include redness and soreness at the injection site. 

Influenza (Flu)

The flu shot is an annual vaccine that is recommended for babies 6 months and older. It reduces the risk of becoming sick with the flu (influenza) and requiring hospitalization. Your primary healthcare provider or pediatrician may recommend two doses when your baby first receives this vaccine. 

Because the flu virus is constantly changing, the flu shot changes each year as well. Its protection wears off over time, so an annual dose is recommended. Possible symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, sore throat, cough, runny nose, headache, body aches, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

Possible side effects of the flu shot include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and soreness or redness at the injection site. 

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine protects against measles , mumps , and rubella . It requires two doses at 12–15 months and 4–6 years old. 

Measles is a serious disease that causes a fever, rash, cough, runny nose, diarrhea, and ear infection. It may also lead to pneumonia, brain damage, deafness, and death. It is very contagious and spread through respiratory droplets. 

Mumps is also a serious disease that causes a swollen jaw, puffy cheeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and swollen glands. Mumps is usually a mild disease, but it can lead to meningitis, deafness, encephalitis , orchitis (inflammation of a testicle), and oophoritis (inflammation of an ovary). 

Rubella, also known as German measles, is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. Possible symptoms include a rash, fever, swollen glands, cough, runny nose, and achy joints. 

Possible side effects of the MMR vaccine include fever, mild rash, stiff joints, and redness or soreness at the injection site. 

There is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. 

Varicella (Chickenpox)

The chickenpox vaccine is available as a two-dose vaccine given at 12–15 months and 4 to 6 years old. It protects against chickenpox , a disease that causes an itchy rash of blisters all over the body. Chickenpox can lead to serious complications and may be life-threatening in babies. It is very contagious and spread through respiratory droplets. 

Possible side effects of the chickenpox vaccine include fever, mild rash, stiff joints, and pain or redness at the injection site. 

Hepatitis A 

The hepatitis A vaccine is a two-dose vaccine that is recommended at 12–23 months old and six months after the first dose. It protects against hepatitis A , a serious liver disease. Children under 6 years old usually do not become ill from hepatitis A but possible symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, stomach pain, vomiting, dark urine, and jaundice. Hepatitis A is spread through the stool of an infected person. 

Possible side effects of the hepatitis A vaccine are soreness at the injection site, headache, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. 

The COVID-19 vaccine is available as a two or three-dose vaccine for children 6 months to four years old. It protects against COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While many children who contract COVID-19 will only experience mild flu-like symptoms, some children may develop severe illness requiring hospitalization. It is spread through respiratory droplets and airborne particles, and is very contagious.

Possible side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include pain at the injection site, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Baby Vaccines Schedule

The vaccine schedule for infants and young children covers the ages of birth to 4 years. If your child has an underlying condition or is behind on their vaccine schedule, they may require their own unique vaccine schedule based on their individual needs.  

The first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is recommended at birth. 

Verywell / Zack Angeline

Vaccines recommended for children ages 1–2 months include:

• Second dose of hepatitis B at 1 –2 months old
• First dose of rotavirus at 2 months old
• First dose of DTaP at 2 months old
• First dose of Hib at 2 months old
• First dose of pneumococcal at 2 months old
• First dose of polio at 2 months old

3–6 Months 

Vaccines recommended for children ages 3– 6 months include:

• Second dose of rotavirus at 4 months old
• Second dose of DTaP at 4 months old
• Second dose of Hib at 4 months old
• Second dose of pneumococcal at 4 months old
• Second dose of polio at 4 months old

6 Months to a Year 

Vaccines recommended for children ages 6–12 months include:

• Third dose of DTaP at 6 months old
• Third dose of Hib at 6 months old
• Third dose of pneumococcal at 6 months old
• Annual flu shot starting at 6 months old
• COVID-19 primary series starting at 6 months old

1–2 Years Old 

Vaccines recommended for children ages 1–2 years include:

• Fourth dose of DTap at 15–18 months old
• Fourth dose of Hib at 12–15 months old
• Fourth dose of pneumococcal at 12–15 months old
• First dose of MMR at 12–15 months old
• First dose of chickenpox at 12–15 months old
• First dose of hepatitis A at 12–23 months old
• Third dose of hepatitis B at 6–18 months old
• Third dose of polio at 6–18 months old

2–4 Years Old 

Vaccines recommended for children ages 2–4 years include:

• Fifth dose of DTap at 4–6 years old
• Fourth dose of polio at 4–6 years old
• Second dose of MMR at 4–6 years old
• Second dose of chickenpox at 4–6 years old
• Second dose of hepatitis A at 6 months after the first dose

What Are the Side Effects of Vaccines?

It is possible for any vaccine to cause side effects. Common side effects include a mild fever and pain or redness at the injection site. Most babies and children experience only mild side effects, if any.

Possible vaccine side effects include:

• Soreness or redness at the injection site
• Loss of appetite 
• Mild diarrhea 

Serious side effects are rare and must be treated right away. Seek emergency medical care if your child develops any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• High fever over 105 degrees Fahrenheit
• Nonstop crying for over three hours 

Vaccines help protect your child against serious diseases. The vaccine schedule for infants and young children covers the ages of birth to 4 years old, and the recommended vaccines include DTaP, Pneumococcal, Polio, MMR, chickenpox, COVID-19, and more. Most children experience little to no side effects from vaccines.

A Word from Verywell 

Vaccines are lifesaving for children and their families. It is normal to become overwhelmed when trying to learn about your baby’s vaccines schedule. It may be helpful to remember that your child’s healthcare provider is always available to explain which vaccines your child needs and why. 

If you feel hesitant to vaccinate your child, schedule some time to talk with your healthcare provider or pediatrician. They know your child and their health and will be able to discuss your concerns and fears. 

Your baby’s bandages will likely fall off on their own. If the bandages are still present after two days, it’s OK to gently remove them. You may want to do this in the bath because the water will help to loosen them from your little one’s skin. 

Giving your child Tylenol (acetaminophen) after their shots may help to relieve side effects like pain or a fever. The right dose for your child is based on their weight. Talk with your doctor when your child receives their shots and ask about dosing guidelines.

The Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines are available for babies 6 months and older. The Moderna vaccine is given in two doses and the Pfizer vaccine is three doses.

American Academy of Pediatrics. All About the Recommended Immunization Schedules .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diseases and the vaccines that prevent them .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diphtheria vaccines for children . Updated August 2, 2019.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Getting Your COVID-19 Vaccine .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Birth-18 years immunization schedule .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Possible side effects from vaccines .

By Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH Madormo is a health writer with over a decade of experience as a registered nurse. She has worked in pediatrics, oncology, chronic pain, and public health.

The 30-Month Checkup

Medical review policy, latest update:, the physical checkup, read this next, developmental milestones, 30-month vaccines, questions to ask the doctor.

Don’t forget to book your child’s 3-year checkup on the way out. And enjoy these last six months of toddlerhood. Before you know it, you’ll have a sturdy preschooler who will continue to amaze you with all the amazing things she can do. 

Go to Your Toddler's Month

Trending on what to expect, is your toddler being disrespectful here's why and what to do, here’s why your toddler is taking off his clothes and what to do about it, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., using positive reinforcement on your toddler, what to do if your toddler keeps running away, 11 tips to make flying with a toddler go more smoothly.

Police say a 2-year-old with a gunshot wound was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital

A 2-year-old suffered a gunshot wound Tuesday prompting a police investigation, officials said.

Cincinnati police were called to Good Samaritan Hospital just before 1 p.m. and located the child, the department reported. Investigators have not revealed where the child was shot.

The 2-year-old is now in stable condition after being transferred to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Police said an investigation is ongoing.

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14-year-old shot in the back early Saturday morning, APD says

Atlanta Police Department Atlanta Police Department (Atlanta Police Department )

ATLANTA — Atlanta police are searching for the person who shot a teenager early Saturday morning.

Officers were called to a townhome community on Brownlee Road in southwest Atlanta around 3:30 a.m.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks ]

When they arrived, they found a 14-year-old who had been shot in the back.

The teenager was alert, conscious and breathing when he was taken to the hospital. There is no word on his current condition.

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Investigators say the teen was not cooperative with responding officers when they questioned him about the shooting.

There is no word on what led up to the shooting or possible suspects.

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Former police officer wanted after 2 women are found dead and a child is abducted

Police in Washington state are urgently searching for a former officer suspected in the killings of his ex-wife and a girlfriend and the kidnapping of a 1-year-old boy, authorities said.

The former officer, Elias Huizar, is “armed and considered dangerous, and is likely to commit more crimes,” the West Richland Police Department said.

He was due to appear in court Monday on charges of child rape, according to NBC affiliate KNDU of the Tri-Cities area.

Police initially identified him as a person of interest after a woman was fatally shot at the end of the school day at Wiley Elementary School in West Richland.

Officers were called at 3:23 p.m. Monday and found “one adult female was pronounced deceased at the scene outside of the school,” police said in a statement. The victim was not identified.

The shooter fled the scene and the school was placed on lockdown, police said. No one else was injured in the shooting, the department added, noting that it was thought to be an isolated incident.

Later Monday, police said the body of a second woman was found at Huizar’s home after they obtained a search warrant. No information was given about the woman except that she was “a known associate of the suspect.”

Washington State Patrol issued an Amber Alert for Roman Huizar, described as 2 feet tall and 25 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Though Huizar and the missing child share the same last name, the relationship between them was not immediately clear Tuesday.

The alert also said the women killed were Huizar's ex-wife and girlfriend.

Huizar is described as 5 feet, 6 inches tall and 170 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes and was driving a silver 2009 Toyota Corolla with Washington plates CBZ4745, according to the alert.

However, Portland police told West Richland authorities that Huizar was seen in the Oregon city overnight, possibly driving a black sedan. 

"All resources are following up on this lead," West Richland police said.

He previously appeared in court Feb. 15, where a lawyer entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

Court documents seen by KNDU said that Huizar is alleged to have sexually assaulted a teenager while she was sleeping in his home in February this year. This was witnessed and reported by another teenager, the documents say.

No-contact orders were issued for the alleged victims in the case, who were described as teenagers, meaning Huizar can’t go within 1,000 feet of their schools, homes or workplaces, or have any contact with minors under 16.

During the February hearing, prosecuting attorney Anita Petra said that the order would ban contact between Huizar and his own child.

The Yakima Police Department said Huizar was an officer there from 2013 to 2022.

"He did serve as a school resource officer for a period of time, at a couple schools during his employment. Mr. Huizar resigned in February of 2022, immediately following discipline," a department spokesperson said.

Details on the punishment and what led to disciplinary action were not released.

The West Richland Police Department will hold a news conference regarding the latest developments in the search for Huizar at 2 p.m. local time.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Lenoir County deputies say 22-year-old man accidentally killed younger brother

LENOIR COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) - Lenoir County deputies say a 22-year-old man accidentally shot and killed his 12-year-old brother last night.

Sheriff Jackie Rogers tells WITN News that the child was shot in the chest.

Za’Dok Clark was a student at Contentnea-Savannah School.

“The loss of a student is always tragic,” said Patrick Holmes, school system spokesman. “Our first thoughts are for the family of Za’Dok Clark and LCPS extends to them our heartfelt sympathy. The LCPS crisis management team is at Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School today to provide additional counseling and support services for students and staff members and will be there as long as needed.”

Deputies have not released the older brother’s name.

This marks the third accidental shooting of a child in Lenoir County since the first of the year. On January 5th, a teenager was shot by their toddler sibling. That victim recovered, while nine days later a three-year-old boy was killed when he shot himself with an unsecured handgun.

In both of those cases, the fathers of the children were charged after deputies said they failed to properly secure their guns from the children.

Deputies say the preliminary investigation of the shooting of Za’Dok appears to be an accidental shooting by the older brother.

It happened on the 2600 block of Dean Drive just outside of Kinston around 7:00 p.m.

Authorities say the gun involved was a .22 caliber rifle.

The Lenoir County Department of Social Services is aiding the LCSO in this situation.

The sheriff’s office is consulting with the District Attorney’s office for guidance and the investigation into this shooting continues.

Copyright 2024 WITN. All rights reserved.

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Vaccine Schedule

Following the recommended vaccine schedule provides your child with the best protection from potentially serious diseases.

See which vaccines your child needs from birth through age 6 in this parent-friendly immunization schedule.

See which vaccines your child needs from ages 7 through 18 in this parent-friendly immunization schedule.

Who Sets the Vaccine Schedule

Reasons to Follow the Schedule

• Vaccines & Immunizations

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