Immunizations for Premature Infants - Topic Overview
Immunizations for Premature Infants Guide
Routine immunizations
Starting at 2 months after birth, premature infants need all the recommended immunizations that full-term infants get. The one immunization that your preemie may not get on schedule is the hepatitis B vaccine, which is usually given at birth. This vaccine doesn't work as well in very small preemies and may be given one month after birth if the mother does not have chronic hepatitis B infection.
For more information about recommended immunizations, see the topic Immunizations.
Recommended Related to Children's Vaccines
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all children. It protects against three potentially serious illnesses. It is a two-part vaccination, and in most states, you must prove your children have gotten it before they can enter school. If you are an adult who has not had the vaccination or the diseases, you may need the MMR shot, too.
Read the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine article > >
Tdap and flu (influenza) vaccines for close contacts
It's dangerous for a newborn to get pertussis (whooping cough) or the flu. If you have not yet had the vaccines for these diseases, get immunized as soon as possible. Ask teens and adults who have never had a tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) shot to get a dose at least 2 weeks before being in close contact with your baby. It's important for adults and children to get the yearly flu vaccine too. These vaccines can help protect your baby from severe problems from these diseases.
When your infant is 6 months old (chronological age), he or she can start getting a yearly flu shot. This is especially important for babies who have chronic lung disease.
Extra protection for your premature infant
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Premature infants, particularly those who have lung problems, have a higher risk of developing severe respiratory syncytial virus infection than full-term infants. Your infant's doctor may recommend a monthly injection of the RSV monoclonal antibody during the winter RSV season, which greatly reduces the risk of severe infection and hospitalization. For more information, see the topic Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection.