Protecting your child now and in the future
Immunisations, also known as vaccinations are usually given by injection. Children in the UK are offered vaccinations against a variety of diseases as part of the Healthy Child Programme. You can get advice on the vaccinations from your family doctor or health visitor. A record is kept in the Parent Held Child Health Record (Red Book), which is a book you keep containing information on your child’s health.
Immunisations are mainly given during the first five years. It’s important to have vaccinations at the right age to keep the risk of disease as low as possible. It is normal to worry about vaccinations, so don’t hesitate to ask your health visitor or doctor for advice - that’s what they are there for! Childhood immunisations are free and most are given at your doctor’s surgery.
Some immunisations are given more than once, to make sure the protection continues. This is known as a booster, so make sure your child gets it.
Immunisations are used to protect children from diseases which can be very serious and sometimes even cause death.
The protection immunisations offer your child are worth the small amount of pain.
It is important your child’s vaccinations are kept up-to-date. If you miss one, rebook with the surgery or health visitor as soon as possible.
Immunisations are the best way of protecting against some of, what were, common childhood illnesses.
Health visitor says
Make sure you keep your child’s Red Book in a safe place. It is your only complete record of their childhood immunisations and they are often needed later in life.
If you have any questions or concerns about childhood immunisations and vaccines in the UK, then speak to your health Visitor or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or www.nhs.uk.
Immunisation begins at two months, when baby's natural immunity to illness begins to drop.
Immunisations don’t just protect your child during childhood, they protect them for life.
Your health visitor will tell you when local immunisation sessions are taking place.
If you are worried, contact your doctor or health visitor.