Welcome to our all you need to know parent guide to immunisation.
Below, we explore the immunisation timetable, ways to help you prepare, what you can expect after, additional resources and more!
Thanks to the childhood immunisation programme, little ones in the UK are protected against many dangerous diseases including polio.
It’s easy to forget when your baby’s due to have her jabs. Most GP surgeries will send you a reminder to make the necessary appointments.
This guide can be a useful tool in ensuring your little one is up to date on vaccinations.
The table below is an approximate guide for immunisations (based on advice provided by the NHS) but your GP or health visitor should remind you when the next one is due.
Try to stick to the immunisation schedule that your GP gives you, this will ensure your child is protected as soon as possible.
Tips on preparing for your baby’s immunisation appointment
Avoid dressing your child in chunky, padded or tight-fitting clothes with a lot of straps and buttons. Instead dress them in clothes that can be rolled up easily like romper suits or loose or short sleeved t-shirts.
Allow plenty of time to get to your appointment. If you’re rushing and stressed your little one may sense that and start to become anxious. This will also give you time to ask any questions and discuss any concerns.
The NHS recommend using infant paracetamol to reduce the risk of fever after the Men B vaccination. If you don’t have this at home, pop down to the local pharmacy ahead of time to pick some up. Click here for a guide to paracetamol/ibuprofen for children.
What will happen at the appointment
The vaccine will be administered by the nurse at the GP or baby clinic. They will give you information about the vaccine and you’ll have a chance to talk through any questions or concerns.
If your little one is poorly, you may be advised to wait a week before their immunisations.
Remember to take your baby’s immunisation passport with you so that the nurse can note what has been administered.
What happens after the appointment
Just in case your little one reacts to the injection, you’ll be asked to stay in the surgery for about 10mins after.
It’s totally normal for your little one to be upset for a while after, they may also be a little more irritable and clingier for a day or two after their jab.
Don’t worry if you see mild redness or swelling on the injection area – that’s perfectly normal. If your baby is running a post-vaccination fever you can help by:
Offering plenty of feeds, little and often is recommended,
Letting them wear just a vest and ensuring the bedroom is a comfortable temperature and well-ventilated,
Consider giving them baby paracetamol or ibuprofen,
Give plenty of kisses and cuddles.
Using paracetamol or ibuprofen
If your child has a fever and is feeling uncomfortable, you can give them Paracetamol or Ibuprofen – Calpol or Alternative Infant Suspension (suitable from 2 months and weighing over 4kg). This typically begins to work within 15 minutes.
Click here for a guide on how to measure your child’s temperature.
Click here for a guideline on dosing. Always read the label to find out the accurate dosage.
Febrile Seizures (fits)
In most cases, febrile seizures are linked with the start of a fever caused by infection but in rare cases, they can happen after a vaccination.
Although these fits can be frightening, they aren’t usually a cause for concern.
In some cases, it can be a sign of a serious condition (such as meningitis) which requires medical treatment. Dial 999 immediately if your little one:
Is having a fit for the first time,
Is having a seizure that’s lasting longer than 5 minutes,
Is having breathing difficulties,
You suspect the fit is caused by another serious illness.
You know your baby best so trust your instincts and seek medical attention if you are concerned about these or any other symptoms.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding vaccinations speak to your GP, health visitor or nursery manager or check out the resources below.
Additional Resources