Vaccinations for Babies in India: What Parents Should Know

)Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to protect your baby against serious illnesses.

As a neonatologist and paediatrician practicing at Mumbai (Goregaon, Andheri, Vile Parle, Bandra) I meet many parents who are confused about which vaccines are compulsory, which are optional, and whether they should choose painless vaccines.

Here’s an easy, evidence-based guide to help you make informed decisions for your baby.

Government Vaccines (National Immunization Program – NIP India)

The Government of India provides a free vaccination schedule under the National Immunization Program (NIP). These vaccines are available at government health centers and municipal hospitals across Mumbai.

Vaccines under NIP include:

• BCG – Protects against tuberculosis

• OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) - against Polio

• Pentavalent Vaccine – Covers Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Hib

• Rotavirus Vaccine – Prevents diarrheal illness

• PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) – Against pneumonia & meningitis

• MR (Measles & Rubella)

• JE (Japanese Encephalitis) – in selected endemic districts

• Vitamin A supplementation (as part of child health programs)

👉 These vaccines are free of cost at government facilities.

Additional / Optional Vaccines (Not in NIP but Recommended by Pediatricians)

In private practice, parents are often advised on additional vaccines to give broader protection:

• Influenza Vaccine – Seasonal flu protection (given annually)

• Chickenpox (Varicella) – Prevents severe varicella infections

• Hepatitis A – Against food and water-borne liver infections

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – More comprehensive than MR provided in NIP

• Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine – Stronger and longer-lasting protection than older typhoid vaccines

• Meningococcal Vaccine – Especially before travel abroad or for high-risk children

• HPV Vaccine (for older girls/adolescents) – Prevents cervical cancer later in life

These vaccines are paid but strongly recommended by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP).

What Are Painless Vaccines?

Parents often ask me about “painless vaccines.” Here’s the truth:

• Painless vaccines are not completely pain-free. The injection itself still causes a prick.

• What makes them “painless” is that they generally cause fewer side effects like fever, swelling, or irritability.

• Example: For DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), the “painless” acellular pertussis vaccine causes less post-vaccine discomfort than the whole-cell version.

However, painless vaccines may be slightly less effective in generating long-lasting immunity compared to their conventional counterparts. This is why pediatricians discuss pros and cons with each family.

Practical Tips for Parents in Mumbai

• Always carry your child’s vaccination card for every visit.

• Stick to the schedule - delays can reduce protection.

• Ask your pediatrician whether a combination vaccine is available to reduce the number of injections.

• For working parents, enquire about flexible vaccination clinics and reminders from your child's doctor.

• If you’re confused, request a personalized vaccination plan - especially if your baby was premature or had a NICU stay.

Final Thoughts

Vaccinations can feel overwhelming with so many options - government, private, optional, and painless. But with the right guidance, you can make the best decision for your child’s health and comfort.

As a UK-trained neonatologist in Mumbai, my role is to ensure parents are confident and supported in this journey. Whether it’s following the government’s free vaccine schedule or adding optional protection, every step you take makes your baby safer.

📞 For a customized vaccination plan for your baby, book a consultation with Dr. Kiran Shrivastava at Nanavati Max Hospital (Vile Parle) or Holy Family Hospital (Bandra) or contact on +91-9833431022 for an online consultation.