Childhood Immunisation

What it involves

Childhood immunisation gives babies and children vaccines on a schedule set by national health authorities. Vaccines protect against serious infections by preparing the immune system in advance. Most are given by injection by a trained nurse or doctor, and several doses are needed for some vaccines.

Who it is for

It is for children from infancy through childhood and the teenage years, according to the national schedule. The World Health Organization notes that immunisation prevents millions of deaths each year and monitors coverage globally.

How long it usually takes

Each vaccination visit is short, but the schedule spans several visits across the early years. The clinic can tell you which are due and when.

What to expect

The nurse checks your child's record and health on the day, explains the vaccines and answers questions. Injections are quick. Your child may be asked to stay briefly afterwards. A sore limb, mild fever or fussiness can follow, and the clinic will say what is normal.

Aftercare

Keep the immunisation card safe and up to date, and bring it to every visit. Follow advice about comforting your child and when to seek help. Contact a doctor if your child has a reaction that worries you, and call emergency services for difficulty breathing or collapse.

When to seek it

Check the schedule when your baby is born and at each stage, and ask about catching up on missed doses, which is possible.

What affects the cost

Cost depends on the vaccine, whether it is part of a public programme, the consultation fee and the clinic. HealthNaro shows a price only where a clinic has supplied a figure with a source and date.

Read more in our guide: Child vaccination visits: what to expect at each immunisation appointment.

This page is general information and not medical advice. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number.

Sources: NHS; World Health Organization; World Health Organization.