VACCINATION FOR CHILDREN

Why Vaccinating Your Child Matters More Than Ever

As the UAE continues to grow in healthcare excellence, greater focus is being placed not only on treating illnesses but also on preventing them. Vaccinating your child is one of the most effective, safe, and essential steps you can take to protect their health, and the health of the wider community.

Vaccines prevent potentially life-threatening diseases, reduce hospitalizations, and contribute to herd immunity shielding even those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

The Importance of Immunization

Immunization is a scientifically proven tool that protects children from a range of infectious diseases
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines help prevent 2 to 3 million deaths globally each year
Vaccination is one of the most cost-effective health interventions available
Preventive care is a key pillar of the UAE’s national healthcare strategy

Dubai’s Recommended Vaccination Schedule

This schedule is based on the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Immunization Guideline v3.0 (25-09-2024), and incorporates best practices from global health authorities including the WHO, CDC, and UK NHS.

From Birth to 6 Years (Childhood Immunization Program)

At Birth
BCG, Hepatitis B (1st dose)

BCG protects against severe TB; Hep B starts liver protection early

2 Months
Hexavalent (DTaP, Hib, IPV) (1st dose), Hepatitis B (2nd dose), PCV (1st dose), Rotavirus (1st dose)

First dose of core vaccines; Hexavalent combines 6 diseases in 1 shot

4 Months
Hexavalent (2nd dose), Hepatitis B (3rd dose), PCV (2nd dose), Rotavirus (2nd dose)

Follow-up to build stronger immunity; same vaccines as 2 months

6 Months
Pentavalent (DTP, Hib) (3rd dose), Hep B (4th dose), OPV, PCV (3rd dose), Rotavirus (3rd dose)

Continued protection; OPV introduced; final Rotavirus dose

12 Months
MMR (1st dose), Varicella (1st dose)

First protection against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox

18 Months
Pentaxim (DTaP, Hib, IPV) (4th dose), OPV (1st booster), MMR (2nd dose)

Booster doses to maintain protection; MMR second dose completes series

5–6 Years
DTaP, IPV (5th dose), OPV (2nd booster), Varicella (2nd dose)

Final boosters before school entry; ensures long-term immunity

School-Age Immunizations (Ages 13–18)

13–14 Years
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) – 2 doses

Protects against cervical and other HPV-related cancers; given to both girls and boys

15–18 Years
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) booster, Meningococcal (ACWY)

Required for many international travel or education programs; offers adolescent immunity support

Optional & Highly Recommended Vaccines

These vaccines may not be part of the national routine schedule but are recommended based on seasonal risk, travel, or individual medical conditions:

Influenza (Flu)
Recommended annually, especially during flu season (September to March)
Meningococcal Vaccines
MenACWY and MenB for adolescents, travelers, or during outbreaks
Hepatitis A
Advised for travel or children with liver conditions
Typhoid
Recommended for children traveling to endemic countries
RSV (Nirsevimab)
For infants under 8 months or those with high-risk conditions during RSV season (Sept–March)

Why Stay on Schedule?

Protect your child from serious and preventable diseases
Comply with school and travel requirements
Promote herd immunity to protect the vulnerable
Avoid costly hospital visits and complications

Your Child's Health Is Our Priority

At Prague Clinics in Dubai, we provide comprehensive vaccination services tailored to DHA guidelines and international best practices. Our pediatric team is here to support your child’s lifelong immunity safely and confidently.

Book your child’s vaccination appointment today and take the next step toward a healthier future.