When families move from India to another country, one of the challenges parents face is keeping their child’s vaccination schedule on track. Different countries follow different immunization guidelines, and this can sometimes lead to vaccine gaps. For NRI parents, understanding how to bridge these gaps is important for ensuring their child’s health and meeting the requirements of schools, daycares, and local healthcare systems.
In India, the vaccination schedule is more extensive in certain areas, with vaccines like BCG, typhoid, and hepatitis A commonly given early. In countries like the United States, Canada, or the UK, the focus is often on vaccines such as MMR, DTaP, and chickenpox. Because of these differences, a child moving abroad may either miss some vaccines that are locally required or end up with doses that need to be adjusted according to the new country’s system.
The first step parents should take after relocating is to carry complete vaccination records from India, preferably in English. This helps healthcare providers abroad assess which vaccines have been given and which are pending. Without proper records, children may have to repeat certain vaccines unnecessarily. Pediatricians in the new country can then compare the Indian schedule with the local one and recommend catch-up doses if required.
Another concern is timing. Some vaccines need multiple doses at specific intervals. If a family moves between doses, parents must consult a doctor quickly to avoid long gaps that may reduce effectiveness. Fortunately, most modern vaccines are interchangeable, and doctors can design a catch-up schedule that ensures proper coverage without restarting everything from scratch.
Parents should also be aware of school entry requirements. Many schools in the US, Canada, and Europe require proof of vaccination before admission. Having updated records and completing any missing doses early prevents last-minute stress during enrollment. For families planning frequent travel between India and abroad, it is wise to discuss additional vaccines like typhoid or hepatitis A, which may not be mandatory overseas but are still relevant when visiting India.
Overall, dealing with vaccine gaps after moving from India requires careful planning and open communication with healthcare providers. By keeping proper records, following catch-up schedules, and staying aware of local requirements, NRI parents can ensure their children remain fully protected no matter where they live.
