What to know about childhood immunisation in children

A vaccine presents the immune system with information that helps it respond to a particular infection. Protection develops over time and some vaccines require more than one appointment. Immunisation also reduces the chance that an infection will spread to people who are more vulnerable, although no vaccine prevents every illness or reaction.

Bring the child’s immunisation record and tell the clinician about allergies, previous reactions, long-term conditions and current medicines. Keep the child comfortable, offer fluids and remain at the clinic for the observation period recommended by the team. A sore arm, mild fever, tiredness or irritability can follow. Use only a clinician-recommended medicine and dose if the child is uncomfortable.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or a rapidly spreading itchy rash after immunisation. Contact a clinician for a fever that concerns you, a reaction that is worsening, or symptoms that do not settle. Report any previous serious reaction before the next dose so the team can plan safely.

Ask which vaccines are due, whether any doses need catching up, what reaction is expected, which symptoms require help, and how the schedule changes when a child is unwell or has a medical condition.