Guide to Baby Vaccinations in Saskatchewan

Bobo Team • All you need to know • 4 min read • Reviewed by Dr. A. Kadhim-Saleh, Family Physician

The Importance of Vaccinations

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. They work by exposing your baby's immune system to weakened or inactive forms of viruses or bacteria, helping their body build defenses against these pathogens. By following the recommended vaccination schedule, you're not only safeguarding your child but also contributing to the overall health of your community.

Saskatchewan's Infant and Pre-School Immunization Schedule

Here's a breakdown of the vaccines your child will receive and what they protect against:

2 Months (1st doses)

DTaP-IPV-Hib Vaccine: This combination vaccine protects against five diseases:
- Diphtheria: A serious bacterial infection affecting the nose and throat
- Tetanus: A severe disease that causes painful muscle stiffening
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A highly contagious respiratory disease
- Polio: A virus that can cause paralysis
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): A bacteria that can cause severe infections, including meningitis
Pneumococcal 15-valent Conjugate Vaccine: Protects against 15 strains of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis.
Rotavirus Vaccine: Guards against rotavirus, the leading cause of severe diarrhea in infants and young children.

4 Months (2nd doses)

DTaP-IPV-Hib: 2nd dose to continue building immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and Hib.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (Pneu-C-15): 2nd dose for continued protection against pneumococcal bacteria.
Rotavirus Vaccine: 2nd and final dose to complete protection against rotavirus.

6 Months (3rd doses)

DTaP-IPV-Hib: 3rd dose to further strengthen immunity.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (Pneu-C-15): 3rd dose for ongoing protection.

12 Months

Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella (MMRV) Vaccine: This combination vaccine protects against four diseases:
- Measles: A highly contagious virus that causes fever and rash
- Mumps: A viral infection affecting the salivary glands
- Rubella (German Measles): A viral infection that can cause serious birth defects if contracted during pregnancy
- Varicella: Protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious virus causing itchy blisters.
Meningococcal Conjugate C (Men-C-C) Vaccine: Protects against meningococcal C bacteria, which can cause severe infections of the brain and blood.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (Pneu-C-13): 3rd dose for ongoing protection.

18 Months

DTaP-IPV-Hib: 4th dose as a booster to maintain immunity.
MMR: 2nd dose to boost protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.

4-6 Years

DTaP-IPV: A booster shot to maintain protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio.
MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella): A combination vaccine that boosts protection against these four diseases.

Influenza Vaccine: Annual Protection

The influenza (flu) vaccine is recommended annually for all Saskatchewan residents 6 months of age and older. This vaccine is particularly important for young children, as they are at higher risk of complications from the flu.

Why Timing Matters

The vaccination schedule is carefully designed to provide protection when your child needs it most. Following this schedule ensures that your baby develops immunity before being exposed to these potentially dangerous diseases.

What to Expect After Vaccination

It's common for children to experience mild side effects after vaccination, such as fussiness, low-grade fever, or soreness at the injection site. These typically last only a few days and are signs that your child's immune system is working to build protection.

Keeping Track

Maintain a personal vaccination record for your child and bring it to every appointment. This helps ensure your little one stays up-to-date with their vaccinations.

Remember, vaccinations are a safe and effective way to protect your child from serious diseases. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They are there to support you in making informed decisions about your child's health.

By following Saskatchewan's immunization schedule, you're giving your child the best possible start in life and protecting them against preventable diseases. Here's to a healthy and happy future for your little one!

Sources

Government of Saskatchewan - Routine Immunization Schedule
Saskatchewan Health Authority - Immunization.
Immunize Canada - Provincial and Territorial Routine Vaccination Programs for Healthy, Previously Immunized Children.

Articles have been medically reviewed by a Canadian Family Physician. This information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.

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