Why vaccines matter
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent infectious diseases. They help the body prepare to fight harmful pathogens before they cause serious illness.
How the immune system works:
- innate immune system: Acts as the first line of defence, responding quickly but non-specifically
- adaptive immune system: Uses B cells to produce antibodies and memory cells, and T cells to kill infected cells and coordinate the immune response
What vaccines do
Vaccines train the adaptive immune system by introducing a harmless version of a pathogen - either inactivated or in tiny live amounts - so the body can learn to fight it without getting sick.
The benefit
Vaccination ensures your body is ready to respond quickly to dangerous infections like measles or meningitis. It protects both you and your community.
If you or your child has missed a vaccine, the NHS advises contacting your GP to catch up.
Vaccinations for babies: what parents need to know
Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to protect your baby from serious illnesses. The NHS offers a comprehensive immunisation schedule starting from just eight weeks old, designed to shield children from potentially life-threatening diseases.
Why vaccinations matter
Vaccines help your baby’s immune system recognise and fight off harmful viruses and bacteria. Many of the diseases we vaccinate against - like measles, meningitis, and whooping cough - can cause severe complications or even death. Thanks to widespread immunisation, these illnesses are now rare in the UK.
The NHS baby vaccination schedule
Here’s a quick look at what to expect in your baby’s first year:
- 8 weeks: 6-in-1 vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, Hib, hepatitis B), rotavirus, MenB
- 12 weeks: Second dose of 6-in-1, rotavirus, pneumococcal
- 16 weeks: Third dose of 6-in-1, second dose of MenB
- 1 year: Hib/MenC, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), pneumococcal booster, MenB booster
These appointments are typically arranged through your GP, and you’ll receive reminders when they’re due.
Common concerns
It’s natural to feel anxious about your baby getting injections. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- side effects are usually mild: Most babies experience only mild symptoms like a sore leg or slight fever
- vaccines are rigorously tested: All NHS vaccines go through extensive safety checks before being approved
- delaying can increase risk: Sticking to the schedule ensures your baby is protected as early as possible
Tips for a smoother experience
- bring your baby’s red book (personal child health record) to every appointment
- dress your baby in easy-to-remove clothing
- comfort them with cuddles, a feed, or a favourite toy afterwards
Final thoughts
Vaccinating your baby is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect their health - and the health of others around them. If you have questions or concerns, your GP or health visitor is there to help.