Canada baby vaccination schedule: everything parents need to know
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Why vaccinate your baby?
Vaccination is one of the most important steps to protect your baby's health. According to Health Canada, vaccines protect infants against serious diseases that can be dangerous, even fatal, at an age when their immune system is still fragile.
Recommended Vaccination Schedule in Canada
The schedule may vary slightly by province. Here is the general schedule recommended by the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS):
| Age | Recommended Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 2 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib, Pneumococcal, Rotavirus |
| 4 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib, Pneumococcal, Rotavirus |
| 6 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib, Pneumococcal, Influenza (flu) |
| 12 months | MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Meningococcal C, Varicella |
| 18 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib (booster), MMR (2nd dose) |
How to prepare baby for vaccination?
- Before: breastfeed or bottle-feed just before the vaccine — sucking has a proven calming effect
- During: hold baby in your arms, skin-to-skin if possible
- After: give lots of cuddles, monitor temperature and injection site
Normal reactions after vaccination
It is normal for baby to experience some reactions within 24-48 hours following the vaccine:
- ✅ Mild fever (less than 38.5°C)
- ✅ Redness or swelling at the injection site
- ✅ Irritability or more frequent crying
- ✅ Increased drowsiness
When to call the doctor?
- 🚨 Fever over 40°C
- 🚨 Inconsolable crying for more than 3 hours
- 🚨 Seizures
- 🚨 Breathing difficulties
Vaccines and baby's comfort
After vaccination, baby may be more agitated and need more comfort. Make sure they are dressed comfortably in soft clothes — discover our collection Baby Clothes & Bathrobes. Good sleep after the vaccine is also important — check out our collection Baby Crib & Sleep Accessories.
