Live attenuated vaccine list: what to know

Examples commonly described as live attenuated vaccines include measles, mumps and rubella vaccination, chickenpox vaccination, and yellow fever vaccination. The weakened organism can prompt a broad immune response, so the body can recognise the infection later. These vaccines are different from inactivated vaccines, which use germs that cannot replicate.

Suitability depends on age, previous doses, health conditions, medicines, pregnancy status, and travel plans. A vaccine being live does not make it the same as the infection it helps prevent.

Take your vaccination record to the appointment and mention allergies, pregnancy or plans to become pregnant, immune-system problems, and medicines that affect immunity. Tell the clinician about recent illness and any previous reaction after vaccination. They can check whether a live vaccine is suitable and explain spacing between vaccines when needed.

After vaccination, mild soreness, tiredness, or a short-lived fever can occur. Follow the clinic's aftercare advice, drink fluids, and keep a note of the vaccine and date for future appointments.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or a rapidly spreading itchy rash after vaccination. Contact a clinician promptly if fever is severe or persistent, symptoms are worsening, or you are concerned because of reduced immunity or pregnancy.

Ask which vaccine is recommended, whether you need another dose, what precautions apply to your circumstances, and which symptoms should prompt a call. Ask how the vaccine fits with planned travel, other vaccinations, or medicines.