One of the best ways to protect your baby against diseases like measles, rubella, tetanus and meningitis is through immunisation. The routine vaccinations at two, four, six, 12 and 18 months and lastly at 13 years of age protect your child against serious diseases that can cause them harm. Start4Life has a full list of the all the vaccinations you baby is entitled to and the diseases they will be protected against.
Children have their first MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) immunisation at age one. The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine that protects against three serious illnesses: measles, mumps and rubella (German measles) Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.
From July 2025, children born on or after 1 July 2024 will be invited for their second MMR vaccine earlier, at 18 months old, to give them protection sooner. Those born before 30 June 2024 will continue to be invited to have their second MMR immunisation at three years four months of age. At the same 18-month appointment, your child will also receive an extra booster of the 6-in-1 vaccine.
Premature babies are immunised at the same times as babies born at term and not at their corrected age. First immunisations are offered in the Neonatal unit if a baby is there at eight weeks.
Remember to bring your baby's personal child health record (PCHR) or 'red book' so your child's immunisations can be recorded.
The BCG vaccine is recommended for those babies and children at an increased risk of coming into contact