Baby vaccinations play an important part in laying the foundations for your child’s lifelong health, protecting them against serious infection and disease. Although vaccinations are very safe, it’s understandable that you may have concerns so in this article we’ll help you to feel prepared and answer some common questions.

Why do I need to give my baby a vaccination?

Vaccinations are provided to ensure babies and children are protected from life-threatening diseases. Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of ensuring your baby will not be infected by these diseases that will make your baby very unwell. All vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety before being administered for use. They are constantly monitored to make sure that they will not pose any harm and will provide protection against the diseases that could make your baby sick.

How do I arrange to give my baby a vaccination?

When it is approaching the time for your baby to receive a vaccination you will need to arrange an appointment through your local G.P. surgery or health clinic. A nurse will administer the vaccination free of charge. Once your baby has received their first vaccination you will receive a record book, where every vaccination throughout your baby’s life will be recorded. It is important that you keep up to date as to when your baby is due his/her next vaccination by following the timeline above.

Is there any chance of my baby contracting these diseases even with vaccination?

The majority of babies or children will not contract a disease if they have been immunised against it however there is a very slight risk that the vaccination did not work. Vaccinations protect 90-99% of babies that receive them. For this reason it is important that all babies get vaccinated as people who have not been protected by a vaccination will be protected by the immunisation of people around them.

What are the side effects?

It is unusual for babies to experience side-effects after a vaccination although occasionally babies show mild side effects within 24 hours of receiving a vaccination. Side effects include fever and some swelling and redness around the site of infection.  There is no need to worry if your baby experiences these side-effects will not cause any harm to your little one as they will subside within a few days. If you are worried or if your baby is showing more severe symptoms contact your Health Care Professional.

If you would like more information please visit the HSE website here.