Childhood immunisations

The need for childhood immunizations has become a hot topic in recent years, with media attention given over to the possible negative effects of certain vaccines, such as the MMR.

Some parents may be concerned about the impact of immunizations on a young child’s immune system and the whole area can be an emotive subject. Government advice is very clear though – it’s safe to vaccinate, it is necessary and the benefits outweigh the risks.

The immunization program recommends the following vaccines for your child from birth on:

Birth Hep B

Two months Hep B, DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio, Rota

Four months DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio, Rota

Six months Hep B, DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio, Rota, Influenza (seasonal)

12 months MMR, PCV, Hib, Varicella, Hep A, Influenza (seasonal)

15 months DTaP, Influenza (seasonal)

What do they protect against?

- Hep B Hepatitis B

- DTaP Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough)

- Hib Haemophilus influenzae type B

- PCV Pneumococcal disease

- Polio Polio

- Rota Rotavirus

- Influenza Influenza (flu)

- MMR Measles, mumps and rubella (German measles)

- Varicella Chicken pox

- Hep A Hepatitis A

See which diseases does my child receive vaccinations against? for more details and the MMR debate for help deciding whether to give your child the MMR jab.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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