Immunisations are given to protect children against serious illnesses. It is really important to have you child immunised as the diseases that we vaccinate against can lead to death or lasting damage to health.

The immunisations are started at the age of 2 months because the diseases are even more dangerous for young babies.

Vaccinations are safe to give to children.  They have been meticulously tested before being licensed and the safety of them are constantly monitored. As with any medicine side effects are possible, however research shows this is the safest method to protect your child.

Breaking News British Children at Risk of Meningitis C

Research by the Oxford Vaccine Group at Oxford University has found that many British children may not be protected against meningitis C, despite the current vaccine in the Childhood Immunisation Programme.

The study found that three out of four British children have no personal protection against meningitis C, despite the vaccine being introduced into the UK immunisation programme back in 1999. The researchers have highlighted that because it is not clear how long herd immunity* against meningitis C will remain in the UK, children could become vulnerable if it erodes over time.

Sue Davie, Chief Executive of the Meningitis Trust says; "Vaccination is the only way to prevent meningitis and save lives. We support the use of safe and effective vaccines and encourage people to receive the vaccines that are currently available. If, as a result of this research, a booster programme is introduced, we would actively encourage the introduction of this. Every day we hear how people's lives have been changed forever after contracting meningitis, so anything that may prevent this suffering would have our backing.

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For further detailed information please refer to www.immunisation.nhs.uk/

Side Effects 

At the immunisation site there may be redness, tenderness and slight swelling.  Your baby may be irritable, feel slightly unwell and may also develop

a temperature.  If your baby does develop a temperature – remove a layer of clothes; offer cool drinks and give a paracetamol or ibuprofen liquid for children.
If you are concerned about you baby after a vaccination, give your GP a ring or contact NHS direct on 0845 4647.

Seek medical attention if your baby has a temperature above 39 degrees or has a fit.

If you have any specific questions about Immunisations, you can contact me through the Ask our Health visitor page by clicking the picture below.