STIKO schedule 2026 for babies 0–2: RSV protection, 6-in-1, pneumococcal, MenB, rotavirus, MMR and chickenpox.
Vaccinations are voluntary in Germany, with one exception: measles proof is required before Kita, often for Tagespflege too (§ 20 IfSG). All STIKO-recommended vaccines are free with statutory insurance.
Schedule for babies (STIKO, as of 2026)
- At birth or before 1st RSV season: RSV antibody, one dose
- From 6 weeks: Rotavirus (drops by mouth), 2–3 doses; 1st dose by week 12
- 2 months: 6-in-1 · Pneumococcal · MenB
- 4 months: 6-in-1 · Pneumococcal · MenB
- 11 months: 6-in-1 · Pneumococcal · MMR · Chickenpox
- 12 months: MenB
- 15 months: MMR · Chickenpox (2nd dose)
- 12–14 years: MenACWY
Source: STIKO vaccination calendar, Robert Koch Institute (as of 2026).
Good to know
- 6-in-1: diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, Hib and hepatitis B in one injection.
- RSV: born October–March, soon after birth (in hospital or at the U2); born April–September, in autumn. Currently nirsevimab; clesrovimab is also recommended since September 2026 and will be paid once the rules are updated (KBV).
- Rotavirus deadline: the series cannot be started after week 12.
- Premature babies: one extra 6-in-1 and pneumococcal dose at 3 months; dates count from the actual birthday.
- MenC dropped: since October 2025 there is no separate MenC shot at 12 months; MenACWY at 12–14 years instead (RKI).
- Missed a dose? The series simply continues; there is no need to start again.
Why so early?
- Mother's antibodies: protect against many viruses at first, but not against whooping cough or bacterial meningitis, which are most dangerous for young babies.
- Breastfeeding: helps, but does not replace vaccination.
- Few injections: combination vaccines keep the number low and are well tolerated.
Vaccines for parents
- In pregnancy: whooping cough vaccine in every pregnancy, at the start of the third trimester (earlier if preterm birth is likely). The antibodies pass to the baby (STIKO).
- Family and carers: up-to-date whooping cough protection, ideally at least 4 weeks before the birth (STIKO).
- Adults born after 1970: unclear or only one measles vaccination? Get an MMR vaccine.
Reactions after vaccination
- Normal, passes in 1–3 days
- Redness, swelling or pain where the injection went in
- Mild fever, sleepiness, fussiness
- After MMR or chickenpox: a mild reaction 7–12 days later
- See your Kinderarzt
- Anything unusual, or if your baby seems unwell
- Practice closed? Call 116 117
Serious side effects are very rare (infektionsschutz.de).
Tips for vaccination day
- On your lap: hold your baby and stay calm; your mood carries over.
- Feed: breastfeeding or a little sweet tea just before and during the injection eases the pain.
- Impfpass: bring the yellow vaccination booklet.
Sources
Official German sources, most of them in German.