Childhood immunisation

Q1: What are vaccines for? 

A: A vaccine trains the body’s immune system. It introduces a tiny, safe part of the virus or bacteria so the body learns to recognise and fight it. That way, if your child ever comes into contact with the real thing, their immune system already knows how to fight it off quickly. 

Q2: What’s included in the childhood vaccination schedule? 

A: Children are protected against illnesses like measles, meningitis, polio, whooping cough, and others. The vaccines are given in stages — at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks, at 1 year, and again before starting school. 

These conditions are important to get protection from because these diseases can be very serious & even life-threatening. 

Q3: Why are vaccines given so young? 

A: Young children are more vulnerable to complications from infections. The schedule is carefully designed to protect them early on and effectively. 

Q4: Do children still need vaccines if they don’t go to nursery? 

A: Yes — even if your child mostly stays at home, they can catch infections from siblings, visitors, or being out in the community. Vaccinating your child also helps protect others — that’s called herd immunity. 

Q5: How does herd immunity work? 

A: It helps stop diseases from spreading. Some people, like newborns or people with certain medical conditions, can’t be vaccinated themselves. They rely on others being protected. 

Q6: What happens if a child is unwell on the day of their jab?

A: If they’ve just got a mild cold, it’s usually fine to go ahead. But if they’ve got a high fever or seem unwell, it may be better to postpone but speak to a member of the team here about this for the best advice on what to do. 

Q7: Will the jab make their illness worse? 

A: No — vaccines don’t make existing bugs worse. 

Q8: Are vaccine side effects usually mild? 

A: Yes — side effects are usually mild and settle quickly. Most children are fine afterwards, though it’s normal to get some redness, a mild fever, or be a bit tired for a day or two. 

Serious reactions are extremely rare. 

Q9: What should families do if their child’s been vaccinated abroad? 

A: They should let their GP know and bring in any paperwork. The practice can review it and update the NHS record. 

Q10: What if someone’s missed a vaccination appointment? 

A: It’s never too late. Just contact the clinic and they’ll help book a new appointment. 

Q11: What if someone’s not sure what vaccinations their child’s had or still has questions? 

A: They can speak to reception or the clinical team, who’ll check the records and talk everything through.