Vaccination/Immunisation schedule

What is Vaccination or Immunisation?

Vaccination, also called immunisation, is the process of administering a vaccine to stimulate the immune system. The immune system then produces antibodies that help protect against the target disease. Vaccination is key to preventing infectious diseases because it can eradicate some and exacerbate others. Vaccines are recommended for people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Vaccination schedules differ depending on the age of the person. Below is a schedule of vaccinations, but it is important to consult with a doctor for specific recommendations.

Importance of Vaccination or Immunisation

Vaccination, also known as immunisation, is the process of receiving a vaccine to protect against infectious diseases. The importance of vaccination cannot be overstated, as it is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Here are some reasons why vaccination is crucial:

• Prevention of Disease: Vaccines help prevent the spread of diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and many others. Vaccines work by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of the disease-causing microbe, allowing the immune system to recognize and fight the disease in the future. 
• Protection of Public Health: Vaccination helps to protect public health by preventing the spread of diseases from person to person, particularly in crowded environments such as schools, hospitals, and public transportation.
• Cost-effective: Vaccination is a cost-effective way of preventing disease, as the cost of vaccination is often lower than the cost of treatment for the disease. Additionally, vaccinations prevent the need for extended hospital stays and medical care, reducing overall healthcare costs.
• Herd Immunity: Vaccination provides herd immunity, which occurs when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated and thus reduces the overall risk of disease for everyone, including those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or health reasons.

Vaccination/immunisation schedule for children from birth to 6 years old

At Birth:

Hepatitis B (HepB)

At 1-2 months:

• Hepatitis B (HepB)
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
• Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13)
• Rotavirus (RV)

At 4 months:

1. DTaP
2. IPV
3. Hib
4. PCV13
5. RV

At 6 months:

• DTaP
• Hib
• PCV13
• RV
• Influenza (yearly)

At 6–18 months:

1. Hepatitis B (HepB)
2. Influenza (yearly)

At 12–15 months:

• Hib
• PCV13
• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
• Varicella (VAR)

At 18 months to 2 years:

Hepatitis A (HepA)

At 4-6 years:

1. DTaP
2. IPV
3. MMR
4. VAR
5. Influenza (yearly)

It is important to note that this schedule may vary depending on a child's health history and the recommendations of their doctor.

Vaccination/immunization schedule for children from 7 to 18 years old

At 11–12 years:

• Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

At 13–18 years:

1. Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY)
2. Influenza (yearly)
3. Tdap booster

It is important to note that this schedule may vary depending on a child's health history and the recommendations of their doctor. To find out more about vaccinations, speak to any of our medical experts.

Maintaining a vaccination/immunisation schedule or chart

As a new parent, maintaining a vaccination chart helps you keep track of the most crucial aspect of your child's future health. Everything seems overwhelming, and maintaining a checklist of vaccinations comes in handy for both you and your baby's doctor. As your child grows up, so do your responsibilities, and it gets easier to lose track of monthly or even yearly vaccinations. This is why a schedule or a chart helps maintain a record. 

A vaccination or immunisation chart is not just helpful to keep track of your child's vaccine record but also one of the most important documents to have during school admissions, as their well-being is directly associated with those around them.

Conclusion

Vaccinations and immunisations are crucial components of preventive healthcare for individuals of all ages. By following the recommended vaccination schedules, individuals can protect themselves and others from preventable diseases. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule based on individual health history and potential risk factors. Staying up-to-date on vaccinations not only protects individuals but also helps to maintain overall public health and prevent outbreaks of diseases. By taking the necessary steps to stay vaccinated, individuals can ensure a healthier future for themselves and their communities.

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