- Protects against
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough, Hepatitis B, Hib disease, Polio
- How given
- Injection, usually in the thigh.
- Doses
- Three primary doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks.
- Reactions
- More noticeable
About this vaccine
The Hexavalent vaccine combines six protections into one injection: diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, hepatitis B, and Hib disease. Fewer separate shots at each visit while still covering all six infections. It is widely used in private schedules in India and in several national programmes worldwide.
What it protects against
Diphtheria
A bacterial infection that can block breathing and damage the heart.
Disease guide DiseaseTetanus
A serious infection caused by bacteria entering through wounds.
Disease guide DiseaseWhooping cough
A highly contagious cough that is especially dangerous for young babies.
Disease guide DiseaseHepatitis B
A liver infection that can become long-term if caught in infancy.
Disease guide DiseaseHib disease
A bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and pneumonia in young children.
Disease guide DiseasePolio
A viral infection that can cause permanent paralysis in young children.
Disease guideWhen it's given
Ages follow the schedules listed above. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.
How it's given
Injection, usually in the thigh. This vaccine covers multiple infections in a single dose, reducing the number of separate injections needed at each visit.
Side effects & safety
A baby may feel fussy or have a mild fever with some redness at the injection site, usually settling within a day.
Fever, fussiness and injection-site swelling are common for 1-2 days. This is expected and settles on its own.
When to call your doctor: if fever exceeds 40°C, lasts more than 2 days, or your child seems unusually unwell.
Alternatives & related vaccines
Common questions
Sources
- IAP Immunization Recommendations · Indian Academy of Pediatrics, 2024.
Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.
From the blog
All guides →This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.
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