What should you know about early childhood vaccination schedule?

Vaccines train the immune system to recognise specific infections. Some need more than one dose because protection is built and refreshed over time. The exact schedule depends on the child's age, previous records, health conditions and the programme used where the child receives care. An inactivated vaccine cannot cause the infection it targets, while a live attenuated vaccine uses a weakened form; the clinician chooses what is appropriate.

Vaccination can reduce the risk of serious illness from infections such as whooping cough and rotavirus infection, but no vaccine replaces prompt care when a child is unwell.

Keep the child's vaccination record and take it to every appointment. Ask the clinic to check missed doses rather than restarting a series yourself. Tell the vaccinator about allergies, previous reactions, immune problems, regular medicines and recent illness. Mild soreness or fever can occur; follow the advice given for comfort and observation.

If a dose is delayed, contact the immunisation service for a catch-up plan. Do not share another child's schedule because timing can differ.

Seek emergency help after vaccination for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or unusual unresponsiveness. Contact a clinician promptly for a child who is persistently very unwell, has a concerning fever, or has a reaction that is worsening rather than settling. A brief local reaction is usually managed with the clinic's instructions.

Which doses are due now? Is a catch-up dose needed? Which vaccine type is planned, and what reactions should I watch for? How should vaccination timing change if my child is ill or takes regular medicine?