The pentavalent vaccine is one of the most important childhood immunizations in Mexico. It provides protection against several serious diseases that can cause severe complications or even death if left unprevented. In this article, we explain what the pentavalent vaccine is, which diseases it protects against, how it differs from the hexavalent vaccine, who should receive it, the recommended vaccination schedule, and possible side effects.
What is the pentavalent vaccine?
The pentavalent vaccine is a combination immunization that protects against five different diseases in a single shot. This reduces the number of injections children need during their early years and ensures broad protection.
Which diseases does the pentavalent vaccine prevent?
The vaccine protects against:
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Tetanus
- Polio
- Invasive infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
These conditions used to be common and often led to paralysis, neurological damage, or death. Thanks to systematic vaccination, their incidence has been drastically reduced.
Difference between pentavalent and hexavalent vaccines
The main difference is that the hexavalent vaccine also protects against hepatitis B. While the pentavalent covers five diseases, the hexavalent includes six.
In general, the hexavalent vaccine is often preferred in private practice because of its broader protection, but the pentavalent remains widely used in the public health system and continues to provide excellent protection.
Who should get the pentavalent vaccine?
This vaccine is recommended for all children under 5 years old as part of the official Mexican vaccination schedule. Timely application is crucial to ensure full protection.
Vaccination schedule
The pentavalent vaccine is given according to this schedule:
- 1st dose: at 2 months of age
- 2nd dose: at 4 months of age
- 3rd dose: at 6 months of age
- Booster: at 18 months of age
This schedule provides effective protection during early childhood.
Possible side effects
Like most vaccines, the pentavalent may cause mild, temporary side effects such as:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Irritability
- Drowsiness or tiredness
Rarely, high fever or persistent crying may occur, which should be evaluated by a doctor. Still, the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.
Cities where we offer the pentavalent vaccine
Doctor At Home México provides home vaccination services in:
- Puerto Vallarta
- Cabo San Lucas
- San José del Cabo
- Mazatlán
- Culiacán
- Guadalajara
- Chapala
- Morelia
- San Luis Potosí
- Cuernavaca
- Mexico City
- State of Mexico
- Puebla
- Mérida
- Cozumel
- Playa del Carmen
- Cancún
- Monterrey
Conclusion
The pentavalent vaccine is essential to protect children from severe diseases in their early years. While the hexavalent offers additional protection against hepatitis B, the pentavalent remains safe, effective, and an important part of Mexico’s official vaccination program.
Ensure your child’s protection today. Schedule your vaccination through our online menu.