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These days there are so many immunisations given to young children that it’s hard to keep track of what’s what. Babies receive these vaccinations to help protect them against serious illnesses and diseases caused by harmful bacteria and viruses. To save you from confusion, here’s a guide to keep you in the know about what jabs your baby will receive.
Immunisations have been used in the UK since the 1940s and have helped wipe out major diseases. Back in 1915, there were about 60,000 cases of diphtheria and many deaths from the disease. But since the vaccination was introduced in 1942, it’s become a very rare disease. Immunisations work by giving a very dilute extract of the disease. This won’t actually cause the disease, but it makes the body create antibodies in response to the substance, which builds up immunity against it.
Most vaccines are given in the form of injections which are directed into the muscle or fat in your baby’s outer thigh or upper arm. Not surprisingly, babies aren’t always too keen on this and it can be hard for parents to watch, but is literally a tiny pinprick which will be over very quickly. Although it may seem cruel to make them face the prick of a needle, in the long run it will offer a lot of protection for a tiny price.
Vaccines are given by a nurse or GP, usually at your doctor’s surgery or health centre. Most children will receive the standard immunisations at the times outlined below, but if your child is unwell at the time when the vaccination is due, speak to your doctor in advance as it may need to be delayed.
The only other circumstances which may make immunisations inapplicable are if your child is suffering from cancer, is known to have a weak immune system, is on immunosuppressant drugs or has had a bone marrow transplant in the last six months. If any of these cases apply to your child, your doctor will be able to advise you on what’s best.
Two Months
At the age of two months, babies have the first dose of the 5-in-1 injection. This consists of DtaP/IPV/HiB – or diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertusis, polio and Haemophilus influenzae type B.
They also received the first dose of PCV, or the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. This helps prevent against conditions such as meningitis, pneumonia and septicaemia.
Three Months
At three months old, babies receive the second dose of the 5-in-1 DtaP/IPV/HiB injection.
They also receive the first dose of Men C, or meningococcus type C. This offers protection against meningitis.
Four Months
When they’re aged four months old, babies receive the third dose of the 5-in-1 Dta/IPV/HiB injection.
The second dose of the Men C vaccine is given along with the second dose of the PCV immunisation.
Twelve Months
When they reach the age of 12 months old, your baby will have a booster injection of the HiB/Men C vaccines.
Thirteen Months
At about 13 months of age, they’ll be given the first dose of the three-in-one MMR vaccination. This offers protection against measles, mumps and rubella.
Three to Five Years Old
When your child is between the age of three years and four months and five years old, they’ll be given booster injections of the MMR and DtaP/IPV/HiB immunisations.
As they get older, there are other vaccinations along the way (for example, between the ages of 13 and 18 years old they’ll be a booster injection of Td/IPV – tetanus, diphtheria and polio).
If you’re still unsure about why children receive vaccinations or have any questions, then it’s wise to speak to your GP or health visitor.
Rachel Newcombe
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