Keeping your children healthy and protected from preventable diseases is always a top priority! That’s why pediatric vaccines are important, to not only protect your little ones but also prevent widespread outbreaks. Pediatric vaccines shield against serious illnesses and reduce the risk of hospitalizations and long-term complications.
Why the vaccination schedule is important
Many parents may ignore the importance of following the recommended vaccine schedule, but it was created for 1 reason - to give your child protection when they need it. Delaying any scheduled vaccines only lengthens the period of time that your child is unprotected. Vaccine doses are timed specifically by a Pediatrician so that the vaccine can have the best effect, thus giving your child the best protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Why do children need a lot of vaccines?
The reason why children need so many vaccines is simple: their immune system is still developing. While they are newborns, a lot of an infant's immunity is passed on from the mother during pregnancy. However, after birth, the immunity a child receives from their mother fades, and as they need to be protected against several diseases, vaccines help them remain healthy and strong.
What are the specific pediatric vaccines for?
There are numerous pediatric vaccines, and it can get confusing which specific vaccine is for what purpose. Here’s a quick guide to help you.
Priorix
Priorix is a vaccine that protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. This vaccine is recommended initially for children at 12 months or older, with booster doses at 4-6 years old and 11-12 years old.
Hexaxim
Hexaxim is a 6-in-1 combination vaccine that protects against many diseases, such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, poliomyelitis, and serious diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b. This vaccine is recommended initially as a 3-dose primary series beginning at 6 weeks old, with booster doses at 12-18 months, and 4-6 years old.
Rotarix
Rotarix is a 2-dose oral vaccine that protects against rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by G1 and non-G1 types (G3, G4, and G9). This vaccine is given in 2 doses, recommended for infants who are 6-24 weeks of age.
Nimenrix
Nimenrix is a vaccine that protects against meningococcal disease, caused by four types of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria (types A, C, W and Y). This vaccine is recommended as a single dose for children aged 12 months and up.
Varilrix
Varilrix is a vaccine that protects against varicella-zoster virus which is responsible for chickenpox. This vaccine is recommended initially for children aged 12 months, with booster doses at 4-6 years old and 11-12 years old.
ProQuad
ProQuad is a vaccine that also protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella. This vaccine is recommended for children 12 months through 12 years of age.
Havrix 720 JR
Havrix 720 JR is a 2-dose vaccine that protects against hepatitis A. This vaccine is recommended for children aged 12 months and up.
Flu Vaccine
The Flu Vaccine is recommended for children 6 months to <8 years old in a 2-dose series, then annually thereafter. Children above 8 years old are recommended to receive the vaccine annually.
HPV Vaccine: Gardasil 9
HPV Vaccine, specifically Gardasil 9, is recommended for both male and female children starting at 9 years old. Children and adolescents aged 9-14 years are recommended to receive a 2-dose series. Adolescents 15 years old and above are recommended to receive a 3-dose series.
Researching the multiple vaccines children need to protect themselves against vaccine-preventable diseases and any further health complications may be intimidating and overwhelming. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with a Pediatrician before asking for or administering any vaccines. Book your pediatric vaccines in our Kindred clinics now!
Last medically reviewed on May 19, 2025.