Vaccinations are a safe and important way of protecting your baby against lots of different illnesses and diseases.
You’ll find all the information you need about which vaccinations your baby will be offered and when in the Red Book (your child’s personal health record), but this information is also available on the NHS website.
The MMR vaccine is still available for older children and adults born on or before 31 December 2019 who were not vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella when they were younger.
Following changes to the childhood immunisation schedule, as of July 2025your baby will receive the following immunisations/immunisations at these ages.
What’s the difference between immunisations and vaccinations?
In everyday language, both words are used to refer to the same thing. ‘Immunisation’ is the process of becoming immune to a disease, which means your body is able to fight it off. ‘Vaccination’ is when you’re given a vaccine either via an injection or by mouth to help your body develop immunity to a particular disease.
What to expect
You will be contacted by your GP surgery with an appointment, or will be asked to make an appointment for your baby to have their vaccinations. This will usually be with the practice nurse. Make sure you register your baby at a GP surgery as soon as possible after their birth so that there is no delay to the vaccination schedule.
If your baby has a temperature or is a bit unwell, they may advise you to wait a few days. Vaccines are given according to a baby’s actual age, so you don’t need to worry if your baby was born early.
Often parents find it a bit upsetting when their babies have their first vaccinations, so talk to the nurse if you’re feeling worried. Depending on the vaccination, it will either be given by injection (usually into the top of the baby’s thigh), by drops in the mouth or with a nasal spray. Some vaccinations are given as a single-dose, whereas others are given via an injection made up of several vaccines.
Vaccination side effects
After having the vaccination, your baby may be unsettled or have a slight temperature. You can give infant paracetamol according to the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Rarely, there may be other side effects such as:
Pain, swelling or redness at the site of the injection
The BCG vaccine will protect against tuberculosis, which is also known as TB.
Your baby won’t need the vaccine unless they are considered to be at an increased risk of coming into contact with TB. It’s recommended in babies and children who:
Should you need urgent health advice please contact your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency please visit A&E or call 999
