Why Immunise?

Immunisation is the only effective way to protect your child against many harmful diseases. It means your child will be far less likely to catch the disease if exposed to it. Immunisation is also important to help eradicate the disease. If enough people are immunised, then infection will no longer be spread in the community, and the disease dies out. If you are concerned, discuss the benefits and risks of immunisation with a healthcare professional.

If enough people are immunised, then infection will no longer be spread in the community, and the disease dies out.

Common side effects of immunisation

  • Low grade fever.
  • Being whingey, unsettled and generally unhappy.
  • Soreness, swelling and redness in the area where the injection was given.
  • Drowsiness or tiredness.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Loss of appetite.
Young father playing with his daughter inside with toys

What to do

  • Give extra fluids to drink.
  • Do not overdress your baby if they are hot.

The routine use of paracetamol before or at the time of immunisation is not recommended. However if you are concerned about possible immunisation side effects like pain and fever, speak with your family doctor or pharmacist regarding the use of paracetamol.

Chapter 4 Your Child's Health

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