VACCINATIONS
STIKO recommends that infants and young children receive basic immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio (childhood paralysis), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), and hepatitis B.
For most children, the vaccination schedule includes three partial vaccinations at:
2 months, 4 months, and 11 months of age, with at least 8 weeks between the first two doses and at least 6 months between the second and third doses.
Premature babies may follow a slightly different schedule, with four vaccine doses at 2, 3, 4, and 11 months of age.
It's also important to remember to give booster vaccinations at ages 5-6 years and again at ages 9-17 years, with additional boosters every 10 years thereafter.
While the vaccine is generally well-tolerated, it is common to experience mild side effects such as redness or swelling at the injection site, swollen lymph nodes, and general symptoms like shivering, tiredness, or gastrointestinal issues. A fever of 39°C is also possible, along with upper respiratory tract infections. These side effects usually clear up within a few days.
It's understandable to have concerns about your child receiving vaccinations, but the benefits of protecting them against serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses far outweigh any temporary discomfort they may experience. Please don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccination process.
MORE DETAILS:
Diphtheria is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can affect the throat and skin. It spreads through airborne droplets and can lead to serious complications like difficulty breathing, heart rhythm issues, and even organ damage. Symptoms may include a sweet smell, swelling in the throat that blocks the airway, and greasy skin and wounds if the infection affects the skin. Treatment involves antiserum and antibiotics to prevent further complications. Unfortunately, despite intensive medical care, about 5-10% of those infected with diphtheria still die.
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Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is a serious and potentially deadly bacterial infection that causes painful muscle contractions and makes it hard to open the mouth or swallow. The bacteria that cause tetanus are found in soil and can enter the body through small cuts or wounds. Symptoms include facial muscle spasms, trouble opening the mouth, and spasms of the larynx and chest muscles, which can lead to death by asphyxiation. Even with advanced medical care, 10-20% of people with tetanus still die, often because they have trouble breathing or their heart fails. Tetanus is a global health issue, and getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious disease. Even if treated early, tetanus can still be fatal.
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Polio, also known as childhood paralysis, is a serious and potentially disabling disease caused by viruses. It spreads through contaminated food or water with feces and can result in complications like permanent paralysis, muscle wasting, slowed bone growth, and joint damage. Even decades after infection, muscle pain and paralysis can occur again in a condition called post-polio syndrome. Although polio has been eradicated in much of the world, it still exists in some countries and regions, and it can be imported into areas where it has been eliminated. Unfortunately, neither polio nor post-polio syndrome can be cured, but symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life.
You have the option to receive the Polio Shot as a standalone vaccine rather than as part of a combination. Depending on the manufacturer, this vaccine can be administered as early as the 2nd or 3rd month of life.
Also Interesting:
>>>Polioviruses in German wastewater samples: What parents should know<<<
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Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that is spread through bacteria in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is highly contagious and can affect all members of a household if they are not protected. Whooping cough can be a prolonged illness, lasting several weeks to months. It starts with flu-like symptoms that last about two weeks, followed by weeks of coughing fits that can lead to vomiting, especially at night. Recovery can take several more weeks. Infants are especially at risk for complications from whooping cough, with 15-20% of hospitalized patients (mostly unvaccinated young infants) developing pneumonia or otitis media. Seizures and death (occurring in about 1% of all sick children under 6 months old) are also possible. Coughing fits can also cause groin and rib fractures and can leave permanent damage to the lungs or bronchi.
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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a serious bacterial infection that can be especially difficult for infants and young children to fight off. Fortunately, the Hib vaccine has been available for all infants since 1990 and has significantly reduced the number of serious cases. Hib bacteria are spread through coughing and sneezing or through contact with objects that are contaminated. In severe cases, Hib infection can lead to meningitis, inflammation of the epiglottis, pneumonia, or blood poisoning (sepsis). These conditions can be treated with antibiotics, but they can still be life-threatening, especially in the first year of life. Meningitis can cause permanent damage, and swelling of the epiglottis can cause suffocation and death.
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Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and is spread through sexual contact and, in some cases, from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. While it is not as common as other infectious diseases, it can be serious and even become chronic. Vaccination in early childhood is the best way to protect against hepatitis B and ensure that teenagers are protected as well. Symptoms of hepatitis B may include flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin). The infection can take months to heal and can become chronic, leading to ongoing damage to the liver and the ability to spread the infection to others.
Vaccines are an effective way to lower the risk of infection and serious complications. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider.
Last Update: 09/2025
Resources:
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/diphtherie/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/hepatitis-b/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/hib-haemophilus-influenzae-b/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/keuchhusten-pertussis/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/polio-kinderlaehmung/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-kinder-0-12-jahre/tetanus-wundstarrkrampf/