What vaccines are typically administered at 5 months of age?

At 5 months of age, the recommended vaccines include the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against serious infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, as well as the combination vaccine that covers diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, and hepatitis B. These vaccines are critical for building a child's immune defense against several serious diseases.

The pneumococcal vaccine, often referred to as Prevenar 13, is specifically designed to prevent infections that can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio combination vaccine not only provides broad protection against these diseases but is also part of the routine immunization schedule established to ensure community immunity.

This schedule is based on recommendations by public health authorities to ensure that infants receive optimal protection at various stages of their early development. At this age, the child’s immune system is still developing, making it essential to provide these vaccines to help protect against potentially severe infections.