08/04/2026
💉 VACCINATIONS IN THE 1ST YEAR: A Quick Guide for Parents! 👶
Navigating the vaccination schedule can feel overwhelming. Let’s simplify it in 30 seconds: here’s everything you need to know to protect your little one during their first 12 months.
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🏛️ WHERE AND HOW MUCH?
In Italy, all vaccinations included in the National Vaccine Prevention Plan are free of charge and administered at your local ASL (Public Health Office) vaccination centers.
Public service: This is the standard path, free and guaranteed by the SSN.
Private option: Alternatively, vaccines can be purchased at a pharmacy (if available) and administered privately by your pediatrician.
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🔴 THE MANDATORY ONE: THE HEXAVALENT
This is the core vaccine and protects against 6 diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b.
📅 When? It involves 3 fundamental doses, usually administered at:
• 2–3 months
• 4–5 months
• 10–11 months
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🛡️ RECOMMENDED VACCINES (FREE & ESSENTIAL)
These are often co-administered with the hexavalent during the same session for maximum protection:
🔹 Pneumococcal vaccine: Follows the same schedule as the hexavalent (2–3, 4–5, and 10–11 months). Protects against pneumonia and bacterial meningitis.
🔹 Meningococcal B vaccine: Crucial against a severe form of meningitis. During the first year, it is usually given in 2 doses (e.g. at 3 and 5 months) plus a booster.
🔹 Rotavirus vaccine: The only one given orally (drops). Protects against severe viral gastroenteritis.
⚠️ Important: It must be started early and completed within the first 6–8 months (in 2 or 3 doses, depending on the vaccine).
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💡 PEDIATRICIAN’S TIP
Co-administration is safe: an infant’s immune system can effectively respond to multiple vaccines at the same time. This approach reduces the number of clinic visits and minimizes stress for both the baby and the parents.
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👉 Save this post to keep track of the schedule, and always check with your pediatrician or local ASL for the specific vaccination calendar used in your region. 🏥