Immunisation: Preventing Illness & Disease

Immunisation is the only effective way to protect your child against many harmful diseases. It not only ensures your child will be far less likely to catch diseases, but it is also important to help eradicate the disease. If enough people are immunised, the disease will no longer spread in the community and it eventually dies out. Be mindful that babies and children can develop a mild fever after vaccinations.

Common side effects of immunisation:

• Low grade fever
• Soreness, swelling and redness in the area where the injection was given
• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Muscle aches
• Loss of appetite

What to do

• Give extra fluids to drink
• Dress your baby in light, comfortable clothes to avoid overheating

The routine use of paracetamol before or at the time of immunisation is no longer recommended, due to the use of better vaccines with fewer side effects. However, speak with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse regarding the use of paracetamol if you are concerned about immunisation side effects like pain and fever.

What diseases should my baby be immunised against?

Some babies require vaccinations tailored to their specific needs. Always discuss the benefits and risks of vaccinations with a healthcare professional.