Congratulations on your new baby!
This is a very special time for you and your family. Parenting is rewarding but isn't always easy. The Department of Health wants to make sure you and your baby have the best start possible. The department will mail you up-to-date health, safety, development, and other parenting information until your child turns six. These mailings are known as Watch Me Grow Washington Health Promotion mailings. The department, along with other health and safety experts, regularly creates and updates the information in the mailings. WithinReach is a partner of the Department of Health. Its Help Me Grow WA Hotline can help you with parenting, health, and development concerns. Call them at 1-800-322-2588.
1 Month
Babies need immunizations
Vaccines help protect your baby from serious disease. Learn which vaccines your baby will need at two months of age.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis): A Serious Disease for Babies
More than half of all babies under one year who get pertussis (whooping cough) must be hospitalized. Learn these disease facts and how to protect your baby.
3 Months
Immunize your baby on time
It's best to immunize your baby at the earliest recommended age. Infants are more likely than older kids to get very ill, be hospitalized, or even die from disease that vaccines can prevent.
6 Months
Immunize your baby on time
Vaccines are given to babies because the diseases they prevent often strike at an early age. An infant who gets a vaccine preventable disease may have serious health problems that can last a lifetime.
Protect your baby this flu season
This will be the first flu season your baby can get flu vaccine. He or she will need two doses about a month apart for the best protection.
9 Months
Keeping your baby healthy
Checkups are important even if your baby is healthy. The doctor or nurse will check your baby's growth and development and answer any questions you have.
Antibiotic use
When your baby gets sick, it is common to want to give medicine to help him or her feel better. Antibiotics don't kill viruses though.
12 Months
Immunizations between 12 and 18 months
Immunizations can safely protect your baby from more diseases than ever before. Vaccines strengthen your baby's immune system by teaching his or her body to fight diseases.