Is Pentavalent the same as Hexavalent?

No. Pentavalent covers five infections (DTP + HepB + Hib). Hexavalent covers six: it adds polio (IPV). Pentavalent is used in the government UIP schedule; Hexavalent is more common in private practice.

My baby had a high fever after Pentavalent. Should I be worried?

A fever within 24 hours of Pentavalent is a common reaction and usually settles with paracetamol and rest. If the fever is very high, lasts more than two days, or your baby seems unwell in other ways, contact your pediatrician.

Vaccinecombination

Pentavalent

A single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.

Reviewed by TinyDose editorial teamLast reviewed June 2026

Also known as: 5-in-1 vaccine · Penta

Illustration for the Pentavalent vaccine

Protects against

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough, Hepatitis B, Hib disease

How given

Injection, usually in the thigh.

Doses

Three primary doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, with a booster at 16-18 months.

Reactions

More noticeable

The Pentavalent vaccine combines five protections into one injection: diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, and Hib disease. By combining them, it reduces the number of separate shots a baby needs during the busy first few months. It forms the backbone of the primary infant schedule in India under the UIP programme.

What it protects against

Disease

Diphtheria

A bacterial infection that can block breathing and damage the heart.

Learn about Diphtheria →Disease

Tetanus

A serious infection caused by bacteria entering through wounds.

Learn about Tetanus →Disease

Whooping cough

A highly contagious cough that is especially dangerous for young babies.

Learn about Whooping cough →Disease

Hepatitis B

A liver infection that can become long-term if caught in infancy.

Learn about Hepatitis B →Disease

Hib disease

A bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and pneumonia in young children.

Learn about Hib disease →

When it's given

16–18 months · Booster

Government of India

Ages follow India schedules. 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 be fussy or run a mild fever, with some redness and swelling at the injection site. This usually settles within a day or two.

How babies usually reactMore noticeable

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

HexavalentA single shot protecting against six infections, including polio and hepatitis B.

Common questions

Sources

UIP Immunization Handbook · Govt of India, 2023.

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.

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Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV DTaP All vaccines →

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.