When babies are born they have little immunity to disease which makes them susceptible to the sorts of bugs we, as adults, can fight off. Vaccines will give their immune system the help it needs to protect them against serious illnesses, so it’s really important to make sure your baby is immunised to stop them getting sick.

Some of the first immunisations may be given in the hospital before you go home with baby. Then from around 2 months baby will require various vaccines every couple of months from your GP. For the most up to date vaccine schedule please visit the HSE’s information page here.

Immunisations have an excellent safety record and allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare. Sometimes, babies experience redness or swelling at the site of the injection so it’s good to have some paracetamol suitable for babies on hand just in case.

Occasionally babies experience very mild symptoms of the diseases they are being immunised against. But it is unlikely your child will suffer any serious side effects or complications. Your baby is at much greater risk from the disease itself if they are not protected.

If you are worried your baby is having an adverse reaction to a vaccine, speak to your healthcare professional.