Which immunization is given at birth?

Hepatitis B vaccination is administered at birth as a critical component of the immunization schedule for infants. This vaccine is essential because it protects against the hepatitis B virus, which can cause serious liver disease and complications such as chronic hepatitis and liver cancer. By giving this vaccine at birth, healthcare providers can help ensure that newborns, especially those at higher risk of hepatitis B exposure, are protected from the virus early in life.

In comparison, other immunizations listed are typically scheduled for later in infancy or during early childhood. Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) is first given at around 12 months of age, and Varicella (chickenpox vaccine) is also administered typically after the first birthday. The pneumococcal vaccine is part of a series given starting at 2 months of age. Thus, while all these vaccines are important for children's health, the hepatitis B vaccine is the only one given at birth to effectively reduce the risk of early hepatitis B infection.