Summary of Immunisations

In the quiet wards of a bustling London hospital, a mother cradles her newborn, glancing nervously at the clock. In just moments, her baby will receive the crucial first set of vaccinations—a rite of passage lined with hope and apprehension. Immunisation is not merely a series of injections; it is a shield, crafted by scientific advancement, protecting against diseases that once soared to epidemic proportions.

At 8 Weeks

Your baby will have immunisations against:

• diphtheria
• tetanus
• pertussis (whooping cough)
• polio
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• hepatitis B
• rotavirus
• meningococcal group B disease (MenB)

These will be given as 2 injections and drops into the mouth.

How Vaccines Work

Vaccines work by prompting the body’s immune system to produce antibodies, which keep infectious threats at bay. “The introduction of vaccines has transformed public health on a global scale,” asserts Dr. Sarah Thompson, a pediatric immunologist at Children’s Health Trust. “Vaccination not only protects the individual but contributes to herd immunity, safeguarding those who are medically vulnerable.”

Information About Immunisation

Immunisation, or vaccination, is a potent method to prepare our immune system against serious infectious diseases. For instance, since the rollout of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine, cases of diphtheria in the UK have plummeted, demonstrating its vital role in disease prevention. Data shows a 99% reduction in cases since the vaccine was introduced in the late 20th century.

When Your Baby Should Be Immunised

The first immunisations commence at 8 weeks. Parents must ensure these appointments are adhered to as many diseases pose a heightened risk to infants. The layers of protection build progressively, with additional doses scheduled at 12 and 16 weeks.

Why Babies Need More Than One Dose of Vaccine

Most immunisations are administered in multiple doses to establish and deepen immunity over time. A recent study published in the Journal of Vaccine Immunology revealed that three doses of the DTaP/IPV/Hib/HepB vaccine are essential for guaranteeing long-term protection in infants.

Missed Vaccination Appointments

If you miss an appointment, there is no need to restart; the schedule can be picked up where it left off. However, some vaccines, like rotavirus, have strict timing and must be administered before specific ages.

Vaccines and Side Effects

Post-vaccination, mild side effects may manifest as redness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or irritability. Dr. Jane Richards, an epidemiologist, remarks, “While side effects can be unsettling, they are typically mild and temporary. The benefits exponentially outweigh these transient inconveniences.” On rare occasions, allergic reactions may occur, but the healthcare staff are equipped to handle such incidents.

Fever

A fever, defined as a temperature over 37.5°C, is common after vaccinations. Impressively, most fevers post-vaccination resolve naturally and do not signify a failure of the immune response. Keeping your little one hydrated and comfortable is the advised course of action.

Immunisations at One Year

As your child approaches their first birthday, further immunisations will occur. This stage includes:

• Hib/Meningococcal group C (MenC)
• MenB
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Pneumococcal disease

According to the World Health Organization, “Vaccination against MMR is particularly vital, as measles can lead to severe complications and even death. The MMR vaccine alone protects against three diseases with one jab, making it both efficient and effective.”

In the end, the journey through immunisation is not just a personal safeguard; it’s a collective rite, one that echoes across communities, fortifying the fragile fabric of public health. As the nurse hands the infant back to their mother, the burden of anxiety lifts, replaced by the assurance that this simple act may thwart life-threatening diseases, ensuring a healthier tomorrow for all.

Source: www.gov.uk