New Year, New Immunity: 2026 Immunisation Checklist for Children

As families step into the year 2026, it serves as an ideal moment for parents to pause and take stock of their child's immunisation status. Between holiday travels, busy school schedules and recurring

illnesses, vaccine shots often get missed or delayed altogether. While it may seem harmless sometimes, these gaps can leave kids vulnerable to serious and more importantly, preventable infections. This year, making immunity a priority can go a long way in ensuring a healthier childhood.“A simple and practical immunisation plan can help parents stay updated on essential vaccines, booster doses, flu shots, HPV protection, Tdap and typhoid vaccines,” says Dr. Jagdish Kanthwante, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune. Staying on schedule, he explains, is one of the most effective ways to protect children through their growing years.

One of the first steps parents should take in 2026 is checking for missed or delayed vaccines. Many children miss doses due to illness, travel, or school commitments. “Catch-up for missed vaccines is important,” Dr. Kanthwante stresses. Parents should consult their paediatrician to identify gaps in vaccines such as DPT, Hepatitis B, MMR, polio or pneumococcal shots. The good news is that delayed doses can still be safely administered with a proper catch-up plan.Booster doses are another critical aspect of long-term immunity. Children require DPT or Tdap boosters at 4–6 years and again at 10–12 years, along with MMR and polio boosters. Typhoid boosters are recommended every three years, especially during school-going years when exposure risk increases.Seasonal protection is something important as well. Annual influenza vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of high fever, severe cough, pneumonia and frequent school absenteeism. In addition to this, HPV vaccination is recommended for girls and boys aged 9-14 years to protect against cancers that are caused by the Human Papillomavirus, including cervical cancer. Older teens up to 26 years can also receive the vaccine after medical consultation.

Dr. Kanthwante also reassures parents about safety concerns. “Parents should not fear side effects, as these vaccines are extremely safe and effective,” he says. Typhoid vaccination, in particular, remains crucial in India due to continued risks from contaminated food and water.With timely boosters, yearly shots of flu and age-approriate vaccines like HPV, Tdap and typhoid, parents can shield their children against preventable diseases in 2026. Consulting an expert and following a personalised vaccination schedule can also help keep away vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure a healthier year ahead for every child.