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Immunisations

Last updated: 15 March 2012

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What is Immunisations

There’s a comprehensive programme of immunisations offered to all babies and children in the UK

  • 2 months:

    Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Hib = 1 injection. Pneumacocal (PCV) = 1 injection.

  • 3 months:

    Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, polio, Hib = 1 injection. Meningitis C = 1 injection.

  • 4 months:

    Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, polio, Hib = 1 injection. Pneumacocal (PCV) = 1 injection, Meningitis C = 1 injection.

  • 12/13 months:

    Meningitis C, Hib = 1 injection, MMR = 1 injection, PCV = 1 injection.

  • 3yrs 4 months:

    MMR = 1 injection, Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio = 1 injection.

A new vaccine against cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), is given to girls aged 12-13.

At 13-18 years, children are given a further tetanus, diphtheria and polio jab in the upper arm.

Babies who are considered at higher risk of Hepatitis B are given non-routine immunisations into the thigh at birth, one month, two months and a year of age. Babies at higher risk of tuberculosis are also given a jab, known as a BCG, into the upper arm at birth.

What are the symptoms of Immunisations?

Apart from a quick pin prick, vaccinations don’t hurt at the time of being given, but the site and surrounding area can become rather sore and red afterwards. Some children get a mild fever (a temperature greater than 37.5C) after vaccination.

In rare cases, children may develop anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction. This usually happens within minutes, which is why your GP or practice nurse may suggest you keep your child in the waiting room for 10 minutes after the jabs before going home. You should mention any previous bad reactions to vaccinations before your child receives each immunisation.

What are the treatments and remedies of Immunisations?

If a fever develops, you can give your child infant paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat it.

The people who give immunisations are trained to deal with anaphylactic reactions and children recover completely with treatment.

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For Health advice and reassurance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year contact – England - NHS Direct telephone 0845 4647 nhsdirect.nhs.uk, Scotland – nhs24.com 08454 242424, Wales nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk 0845 4647 and Northern Ireland hscni.net.