Vaccinations

There are many ways to protect your child as they grow, but for certain childhood diseases, vaccination is strongly recommended.

  • Many of these diseases have virtually disappeared in several countries as a result of vaccination.
  • Protecting your child through vaccination should form part of routine healthcare.
  • Significant progress has been made in recent years towards the following goals:
    • The eradication of smallpox
    • Polio as the next disease targeted for eradication through vaccination
    • The development of vaccines that are safer and more convenient to use
    • The protection of individuals and the saving of lives
  • At least 20 diseases can be prevented through vaccination.

What is a vaccine made of?

Most vaccines contain purified components taken from killed bacteria or viruses. Some vaccines contain live viruses, but in a very weakened form that does not cause disease.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines “teach” the immune system to recognise and fight bacteria and viruses before an infection occurs. By exposing the body to a small, harmless sample of a germ, the immune system can develop protection without the person actually becoming ill.

Why are vaccines given to babies?

Some vaccine-preventable diseases can infect babies within the first few months of life. Vaccinating infants helps provide protection at a time when they are most vulnerable.

Are vaccines safe?

Over the past decade, improvements in vaccine production and administration have significantly reduced side effects and resulted in safer vaccines. A more purified acellular pertussis vaccine has been included in the EPI schedule, replacing the whole-cell version, which was associated with more side effects.

What about combination vaccines?

Combination vaccines provide protection against multiple diseases early in life and reduce the total number of injections a baby needs.

Can vaccinations cause autism?

Extensive research has shown no proven or demonstrated link between vaccination and autism.