What is childhood immunisation done with?

Some childhood vaccines use an inactivated form of a germ or part of it. This cannot multiply in the body, but it can show the immune system what to recognise. Other vaccines use a live attenuated form, meaning the germ has been weakened so it can stimulate an immune response without behaving like the disease-causing form in a healthy person. The exact vaccine depends on the infection being prevented, the child’s age, previous doses, and local recommendations.

Vaccines may be given by injection or, for some products, another route. Mild soreness, tiredness, or a short-lived temperature can occur after immunisation as the immune system responds.

Bring the child’s immunisation record and tell the clinician about allergies, previous vaccine reactions, current illness, or medicines that affect immunity. The clinician can check which dose is due and whether a catch-up plan is needed. After vaccination, keep the child comfortable, offer fluids, and follow the advice provided for fever or soreness. Do not give a medicine solely to prevent a reaction unless a clinician has advised it.

Seek urgent medical help if a child develops trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, becomes unusually floppy or difficult to wake, or has a seizure after immunisation. Contact a clinician promptly for a fever that concerns you, symptoms that are worsening, or a reaction that does not settle. A brief sore arm or mild fever is usually managed with observation and the specific advice given at the appointment.

Ask which infection each scheduled vaccine prevents, which type is being offered, what side effects are expected, and when the next dose is due. You can also ask how a missed appointment affects the schedule and what information should be recorded after the dose.