Newborn Medications and Vaccinations

Newborns receive essential medications and vaccinations shortly after birth to ensure their health and well-being. Understanding these early interventions can help you feel more confident and informed about your baby's care.

Hepatitis B Vaccination

Hepatitis B is a serious disease that infects and damages the liver. It's spread by contact with infected blood or body fluids. Infected infants are at high risk of becoming carriers of the hepatitis B virus. One quarter of babies who become carriers die of liver disease or liver cancer.

To prevent hepatitis B infection, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a series of three vaccinations. Sometimes the baby is given the first shot in the hospital after birth, or the baby’s healthcare provider may give the first shot in their office or clinic during the baby’s early visit.

NOTE: According to California law, children must receive the hepatitis vaccine to enter school.

Vitamin K Injection

Vitamin K is needed to make new babies' blood clot. Because newborns are born with very low vitamin K, they can develop something called vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). They're given a vitamin K injection soon after birth to prevent bleeding. Pediatricians recommend every baby receive this shot after birth.

Erythromycin Eye Ointment

To avoid the chance of a serious eye infection, erythromycin ointment is placed in a newborn’s eyes within the first hour of birth.

These safe, effective methods are evidence-based and protect your new baby from serious health complications. If you have questions or want more information about newborn vaccinations or medications, please check with your baby’s healthcare provider.