Childhood immunisation programmes protect against a range of infections that were once common causes of severe illness, disability, and death in children, including measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough (pertussis), diphtheria, tetanus, polio, certain types of meningitis, and more. The specific vaccines and timing vary slightly by country, but the goal is the same: to protect children before they are exposed.
Vaccines work by training the immune system to recognise an infection safely. Mild reactions such as a sore arm, a small fever, or being a little unsettled for a day are common and usually short-lived. Serious reactions are rare, and the protection offered greatly outweighs the small risks.
If your child has missed doses, it is usually possible to catch up; ask your doctor or local clinic. If your child has a high fever or specific health conditions, a clinician can advise whether to proceed or briefly delay. Keep a record of your child's vaccinations for school and travel.