2025 Guide to Baby Vaccinations in Karachi

As a parent, you're not just raising a child - you're protecting a future.

From polio to measles, vaccinations are life-saving tools that shield your baby from dangerous diseases. But between doctor visits, EPI centers, school campaigns, and WhatsApp parenting groups, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

So here's a simple, updated guide to the baby vaccination schedule in Pakistan, especially for parents who want clarity, not confusion.

Why Vaccines Matter (Especially in Karachi)

Karachi is Pakistan's largest city, but also a high-risk zone for disease outbreaks due to:

  • High population density
  • Water contamination
  • Low vaccine coverage in certain areas

Diseases like measles, polio, hepatitis, and diphtheria still threaten children under 5 here. That's why timely vaccination is not optional - it's essential.

Baby Vaccination Chart (0 to 15 Months) – As per EPI Pakistan

Below is the official immunization schedule under Pakistan's Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), which is free of cost at all government hospitals and centers:

Age Vaccines Protects Against
At Birth BCG + OPV-0 (Polio) + Hepatitis B (Birth Dose) Tuberculosis, Polio, Hepatitis B
6 Weeks Penta-1 + OPV-1 + PCV-1 + Rota-1 Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hep B, Hib, Polio, Pneumonia, Rotavirus
10 Weeks Penta-2 + OPV-2 + PCV-2 + Rota-2 Booster doses
14 Weeks Penta-3 + OPV-3 + PCV-3 + IPV Final primary series + Injectable Polio
9 Months Measles-1 + Yellow Fever (in high-risk areas) Measles, Yellow Fever
15 Months Measles-2 Full measles immunity
Key:
Penta = DPT + Hep B + Hib
PCV = Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
Rota = Rotavirus (causes severe diarrhea)
IPV = Injectable Polio Vaccine
OPV = Oral Polio Vaccine (drops)

Where Can I Get These Vaccines in Karachi?

You have three main options:

1. EPI Government Centers (Free)
  • Located in most government hospitals, BHUs, and RHCs
  • Offer all vaccines on EPI chart free of cost
  • Maintain vaccination card for your child
2. Private Pediatric Clinics
  • Convenient, especially if your child is ill and you want to consult a doctor too
  • May offer additional vaccines (e.g., flu, chickenpox, typhoid conjugate) not included in EPI
3. Mobile Vaccine Units
  • Available during polio campaigns or outreach programs in slums and katchi abadis
  • Always ask for government-issued ID card of vaccinators

Frequently Asked Questions Parents Ask

A: Catch up as soon as possible. EPI allows catch-up doses. Your child won't have to restart the series.
A: Yes. The vaccines are WHO-approved, UNICEF-procured, and government regulated.
A: Mild fever, swelling at injection site, and irritability are common, but they go away in 24–48 hours.
If your baby gets a high fever or continuous crying, consult a pediatrician.
A: Minor illnesses like cough or cold aren't a reason to delay. Only severe illness with high fever might require postponement, always ask your doctor.

Why So Many Polio Drops in Karachi?

If you're tired of monthly polio campaigns, you're not alone.

But here's why it matters:

Karachi still has polio virus in its sewage. Even one unvaccinated child can spread the virus in your entire neighborhood.

So every polio dose, even repeated, adds a layer of protection.

Polio is irreversible. But polio prevention is simple: 2 drops. Free. Lifesaving.

Tips to Stay on Track with Your Baby's Vaccines

  • Keep the EPI card safe, and bring it for every visit
  • Set calendar reminders at 6, 10, 14 weeks and 9, 15 months
  • Ask your school to maintain a vaccine follow-up list
  • Join WhatsApp groups of trusted pediatricians for updates
  • Don't hesitate to ask questions, your concern is valid.

Final Word for Parents

You don't have to choose between safety and tradition.

You can protect your child with science, stay informed, and ask every question you need to.

Let's raise a stronger, safer generation - one timely vaccine at a time.

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