Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a safe and effective way to protect babies and young children from serious illnesses.

If your child is under school age, your GP surgery will normally contact you when routine vaccinations are due. If you do not have a GP, you can find a GP near you.

The NHS provides helpful vaccination tips for parents.

You can find your child’s vaccination information in their Red Book or on the NHS website: NHS vaccinations and when to have them – NHS.

Your baby will usually be offered their first vaccines at:

• 8 weeks
• 12 weeks
• 16 weeks

These protect against conditions such as diphtheria, hepatitis B, tetanus, polio and whooping cough.

The MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella/chickenpox) protects against illnesses that can cause serious complications such as meningitis, encephalitis and pneumonia.

It is usually given at:

• 12 months
• 18 months

Some older children may also be offered it. Children should be up to date before starting school.

More information:

• Vaccinating your baby – Health Under 5s
• NHS vaccinations and when to have them