Bringing your baby into the world is joyful and overwhelming all at once. Between the feedings, diaper changes and sweet first snuggles, your care team may talk to you about a few important immunizations given in the hospital or during your baby’s first doctor visit.
It’s normal to have questions. Here is a quick guide to the three shots offered in the first week of life—and why they matter for your baby’s health.
Hepatitis B vaccine
What it does: Protects your baby from Hepatitis B, a virus that attacks the liver and can cause lifelong infection
Why it’s important: Hepatitis B isn’t just a risk for adults later in life. Most importantly for newborns, the virus can be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. Studies show that up to 75% of mothers with chronic Hepatitis B don’t know they’re infected—and 90% of infants who catch the virus during delivery will develop a chronic infection. Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to serious liver disease, cancer or even death.
What to expect: The Hepatitis B vaccine is a series of three doses given at birth, 1 month and 6 months. Side effects are rare, other than mild soreness at the injection site.
Beyfortus (RSV protection)
What it does: Shields your baby from RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), a common virus that can be much more serious in infants
Why it’s important: For most adults, RSV feels like a mild cold. But for newborns—especially those born prematurely—RSV can sometimes lead to serious lung infections and hospitalization. In severe cases, babies may need breathing support in the hospital. Beyfortus provides antibodies that protect your baby through their first RSV season.
What to expect: One injection lasts about five to six months. The most common side effects are pain, redness or swelling at the injection site. Studies show Beyfortus reduces the risk of severe RSV illness by about 85% to 90%.
Extra protection tip: Moms can also receive an RSV vaccination late in pregnancy, which helps pass antibodies to their newborns. Keeping siblings and visitors with colds away from newborns—and encouraging good handwashing—are other ways to help protect your baby.
Vitamin K shot
What it does: Gives your baby the vitamin needed to help blood clot and prevent dangerous bleeding
Why it’s important: Babies are born with very little vitamin K, and breastmilk and formula don’t provide enough. Without the shot, newborns are at risk for vitamin K deficiency bleeding—a rare but serious condition that can cause internal bleeding in places like the brain and intestines. These bleeds can happen suddenly and may lead to life-altering complications.
What to expect: The vitamin K shot has been safely given to newborns in the U.S. since the 1960s, with no significant side effects.
If you have questions about newborn immunizations, speak with your baby’s pediatrician. At Wellstar Children’s of Georgia, we’re here to partner with you through every stage of your child’s life.
