Your guide to keeping your family healthy

What Are Vaccines?

Vaccines (also known as “shots”) are special medicines that help our bodies fight off diseases. Below is a quick guide to some recommended vaccines for babies and kids.

Vaccines for Babies (0-2 Years)

Babies need many vaccines to protect them from serious diseases.

Here are some important ones:

  • COVID-19: Protects against COVID-19.
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): Protects against diphtheria (blocked breathing), tetanus (also known as “lockjaw”), and whooping cough.
  • Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib): Protects against a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections.
  • Hepatitis B (HepB): Protects against a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus.
  • Pneumococcal (PCV15): Protects against pneumonia (lung infection) and other sickness caused by a bacteria called pneumococcus.
  • Polio (IPV): Protects against polio, a disease that can cause paralysis (not able to move).
  • Rotavirus (RV): Protects against a virus that causes diarrhea (loose stool).

Vaccines for Kids (3-12 Years)

Kids often get these vaccines before they start school, such as:

  • COVID-19: Protects against COVID-19.
  • Hepatitis A (HepA): Protects against hepatitis A.
  • Influenza (Flu): Given each year to protect against the flu.
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): Protects against chickenpox.

It’s important to talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about which vaccines kids need. They can help your family stay up to date with shots.

You can find information on each vaccine here.

You can find a recommended vaccine schedule by age listed here.

For more info, you can check out cdc.gov about the vaccine recommendations for kids, adolescents, and adults.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.