The hexavalent vaccine is one of the most complete vaccines in the childhood immunization schedule, as it protects against six serious diseases with a single injection. Unlike the pentavalent vaccine, which covers five diseases (diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type b), the hexavalent vaccine adds protection against hepatitis B. This extra defense makes it more practical and highly recommended. By combining these protections in one shot, the number of injections decreases, and adherence to the vaccination schedule improves.
Which diseases does the hexavalent vaccine prevent?
The hexavalent vaccine protects against six potentially severe or fatal diseases:
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Whooping cough (pertussis)
- Poliomyelitis
- Hepatitis B
- Infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
This broad protection makes it a cornerstone of modern pediatric vaccination.
What type of vaccine is it?
It is an inactivated combined vaccine. This means it contains toxoids, bacterial fragments, and inactivated viruses that cannot cause disease, but effectively stimulate the immune system to develop defenses.
Who should receive the hexavalent vaccine?
It is mainly recommended for infants and young children as part of the national immunization schedule. Early application is essential to ensure protection against diseases that are especially dangerous during childhood.
Hexavalent vaccine schedule
According to the vaccination schedule of the Mexican Ministry of Health, the doses are applied as follows:
- First dose: at 2 months of age
- Second dose: at 4 months of age
- Third dose: at 6 months of age
- Booster: at 18 months of age
This scheme ensures strong, long-lasting protection.
What kind of immunity does it provide?
The hexavalent vaccine provides active and durable immunity, stimulating the body to produce specific antibodies. While no vaccine offers 100% protection, it significantly reduces the chance of infection and, if illness occurs, the severity of symptoms is much lower.
Contraindications of the hexavalent vaccine
It should not be administered in the following cases:
- Infants with known severe allergy to any component of the vaccine
- Children who had an anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose
- Cases with high fever or acute illness (postpone application)
- Children with unexplained encephalopathy within 7 days after a previous pertussis-containing vaccine
Expected side effects
The hexavalent vaccine is safe, but like any vaccine, it may cause mild and temporary side effects:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Irritability or prolonged crying
- Sleepiness or temporary loss of appetite
Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare compared to the great benefits of vaccination.
Cities where we offer the hexavalent vaccine at home
At Doctor At Home México, our doctors and nurses can apply the hexavalent vaccine directly at your home in the following cities:
- 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 hexavalent vaccine is essential for childhood protection, preventing six serious diseases in a single shot. Following the vaccination schedule is the best way to safeguard your child’s health.
Book your vaccination today through our web menu and protect your family without leaving home.