Why should I immunise my child?

The process of immunisation protects your child from some serious diseases that are in our community. By immunising against them, the likelihood of your child being affected by these diseases is dramatically reduced and if as a community we are vigilant, we may be able to eradicate these serious diseases just as happened with small pox.

What if my child is sick when immunisation is due?

You should only delay immunisation if your child is very unwell, for example, has a fever of more than 38.5°C, diarrhoea or vomiting or severe Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. Ask your health care provider for advice.

I’ve missed the recommended time frame for immunisation, is it worth trying to catch up?

Yes, definitely. Although it is ideal to maintain the recommended time schedule it is not essential. Talk to your health care provider for more information.

How can I make the experience less stressful?

Unfortunately immunising your child is a situation where you are being cruel to be kind and there would be few mothers who haven’t felt stressed or anxious about it. Try to put yourself at ease so that your child or baby doesn’t pick up on any negative vibes and be secure in the knowledge that it is only a momentary pain that they feel. Here are a few tips:

• Try to remember to take along their special toy, a treat, or snack for straight after the injection to divert their attention.
• You will need to firmly hold your child still during the injections. Consider taking your partner with you if you think it necessary.
• Don’t plan to do much after the vaccinations. Go home and have a restful day.
• If possible leave your “other children” with a friend so that you can focus on your child who is being immunised.
• For older children play “Visiting the Doctor” and talk about how “the needle” will stop them from getting very sick later on.
• If your child is highly anxious about needles, talk to your Doctor about using a local numbing agent prior to the visit.

Local reactions and management

• India Immunization Chart
• Local reactions and management
• Frequently asked questions