Why is an inactivated vaccine used in childhood immunisation?

Inactivation means the germ, or relevant parts of it, have been processed so they cannot reproduce in the body. The immune system can still respond to the vaccine components and build a memory response for a later encounter with the infection.

Different vaccines use different designs. An inactivated vaccine may be chosen as part of a wider childhood programme because its ingredients, schedule and expected response have been planned for the disease it targets. The number and timing of doses depend on the individual vaccine.

Keep your child's vaccination record and take it to appointments. Tell the clinician about a previous severe allergic reaction after a vaccine, current illness with fever, medicines that affect immunity, or a condition affecting the immune system. These details help them decide whether vaccination should go ahead that day or be rearranged.

After vaccination, follow the advice given for the injection site and any expected short-lived symptoms. Contact the clinic if you need help interpreting a reaction or checking the next scheduled dose.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse, or marked drowsiness after a vaccine. Contact a clinician promptly if your child seems increasingly unwell, develops a persistent high fever, or you are worried about a reaction.

Ask which disease the vaccine protects against, whether more doses are needed, and what reactions are expected. If your child missed an appointment, ask how the schedule can be continued rather than assuming the course must start again.