What vaccines does my baby need for winter 2024?

The most important vaccines for winter 2024 are: Influenza (flu) vaccine for babies 6 months+, DTaP (includes whooping cough protection) at 2, 4, 6 months with boosters at 15-18 months and 4-6 years, Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV) at 2, 4, 6 months with booster at 12-15 months, and Rotavirus at 2, 4, 6 months.

Is it too late to get the flu shot in December?

No, it's not too late. Getting vaccinated during flu season still provides protection and helps prevent severe illness. For first-time flu vaccination, babies need 2 doses 4 weeks apart. Previously vaccinated children only need 1 dose. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated annually.

Why is whooping cough vaccination especially important in 2024?

2024 has seen a significant whooping cough outbreak. Whooping cough is especially dangerous for babies under 6 months who haven't completed their primary vaccine series. Pregnant women should receive Tdap during the third trimester to transfer antibodies that protect newborns in their first weeks of life.

What should I do if my baby missed a vaccination?

Don't worry - catch-up vaccination is possible. Your pediatrician can adjust the schedule. Getting vaccinated late is much better than not at all, and multiple vaccines can safely be given at the same visit. Contact your pediatrician to create a catch-up plan.

Health December 17, 2024 7 min read

2024 Winter Baby Vaccination Checklist

Winter 2024 has brought an early flu season and a significant whooping cough outbreak. Is your baby's vaccination schedule up to date? Let's check what's needed this season.

Most Important Vaccines This Winter

1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

Why is it important?
The 2024 flu season started earlier than usual. Even in December, getting vaccinated is still beneficial!

Eligible age: 6 months and older
First-time vaccination: 2 doses, 4 weeks apart
Previously vaccinated: 1 dose
CDC recommendation: Everyone 6 months+ should get vaccinated annually

"Is it too late to get the flu shot?" No! Getting vaccinated during flu season still provides protection and especially helps prevent severe illness.

2. DTaP (Includes Whooping Cough)

2024 Whooping Cough Outbreak!
Whooping cough (pertussis) is especially dangerous for babies under 6 months. Staying on schedule with basic vaccinations is critical.

Primary series: 2, 4, 6 months
Boosters: 15-18 months, 4-6 years

Tip: If pregnant women receive Tdap during the third trimester, antibodies transfer to the baby, providing protection in the first weeks of life.

3. Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV)

Protects against pneumonia, ear infections, and meningitis. As winter respiratory infections increase, so does the risk of complications.

Primary series: 2, 4, 6 months
Booster: 12-15 months

4. Rotavirus (Oral Vaccine)

Prevents severe winter gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus. This is an oral vaccine (given by mouth).

Schedule: 2, 4, 6 months
Note: Must be completed by 8 months of age

Age-by-Age Checklist

0-2 Months

Hepatitis B - 1st dose (at birth)
Hepatitis B - 2nd dose (1-2 months)

At this age, maternal antibodies provide some protection. However, whooping cough is an exception - maternal antibody transfer is limited, making young infants vulnerable.

2 Months

DTaP - 1st dose
PCV (Pneumococcal) - 1st dose
Hib - 1st dose
Polio (IPV) - 1st dose
Rotavirus - 1st dose

4 Months

DTaP - 2nd dose
PCV - 2nd dose
Hib - 2nd dose
Polio - 2nd dose
Rotavirus - 2nd dose

6 Months

DTaP - 3rd dose
PCV - 3rd dose
Hib - 3rd dose (depending on brand)
Polio - 3rd dose
Rotavirus - 3rd dose
Hepatitis B - 3rd dose
Flu vaccine starts! (2 doses, 4 weeks apart)

Missed a Vaccine? What Now?

Don't worry - catch-up vaccination is possible.

Your pediatrician can adjust the schedule
Getting vaccinated late is much better than not at all
Multiple vaccines can safely be given at the same visit

Check our Vaccination Schedule Guide for the complete immunization timeline.

Post-Vaccination Care

Wait 30 minutes at the clinic (to monitor for reactions)
Don't rub the injection site
Avoid strenuous activity for the day
Fever reducer (acetaminophen/ibuprofen) can be used if needed
Contact your doctor if you notice high fever, severe fussiness, or rash

Key Takeaways

Vaccination is the most reliable way to protect your baby. This winter, with whooping cough and flu outbreaks being particularly severe, make sure your baby's immunization schedule is complete!