Immunizations for the premature infant
Routine immunizations
As for any full-term infant, your premature infant will receive first immunizations 2 months after birth. The one immunization that your preemie may not receive on schedule is the hepatitis B vaccine, which is usually given at birth. This vaccine is not very effective in very small infants and is not given until an infant is at least 2000 g (4.4 lb) . See the United States immunization schedule for complete immunization information.
Extra protection for your premature infant
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Prematurely born infants, particularly those who have lung problems, have a higher risk of developing severe respiratory syncytial virus than full-term infants. Your infant's doctor may recommend a monthly injection of the RSV monoclonal antibody during the winter RSV season, which greatly reduces the risk of severe infection and hospitalization. For more information, see the topic Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection.
Influenza. Before the winter flu season, consider having an influenza vaccination (flu shot) to reduce the chances that your infant will catch the flu from you. Ask all other adults close to your infant to have one too.
If your infant has developed chronic lung disease and is at least 6 months old (chronological age), an influenza vaccine can offer him or her extra protection during the flu season.
For more information, see the topic Immunizations.
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: May 8, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Jennifer Merchant, MD - Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine | |
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