Immunisation is a way of protecting against serious disease. Vaccines work by causing the body's immunse system to make antibodies (substances that fight off infection and disease). If your child comes into contact with the infection, the antibodies will recognise it and be ready to protect him or her.
It is important that your baby has their immunisations at the right age - the first ones are given at two months old because it is important to make sure babies are protected as easly as possible.
It is particulary important not to forget the pre-school immunisations, especially when entering a new school community. Protection against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio can fade over time and the preschool booster tops up children’s protection. It is important to have a second dose of MMR as some children do not respond to the first dose and remain at risk of natural infection.
In the UK disease are kept at bay by immunisation but when uptake drops there can be outbreaks. The last measles outbreak in Devon was early 2011. Around the world millions of people a year die from infectious dieases, with more than 5 million of these being children under the age of five. Many of these deaths could be prevented by immunisation.
Any questions? Contact Tracy Fabiano, Immunisation Co-ordinator on 01392 267667
