Most immunisations (also known as vaccinations) are given during childhood, and they are usually given by injection. Immunisation programmes have dramatically improved the health of the UK population.
The immunisation programme for children mainly takes place over the course of five years. Most immunisations are given before a child is one year old.
Immunisations are used to protect children from diseases such as:
- tetanus,
- polio,
- pneumococcal infections,
- diphtheria,
- meningitis C,
- the human papillomavirus (HPV), and
- measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
Immunisations are often given more than once to make sure the protection continues. This is known as a booster immunisation. Children usually need booster immunisations when they have reached pre-school age (five years old), and again before they leave school (between 13 and 18 years of age).
Vaccinations
Vaccination or immunisation is usually given by an injection that makes the body's immune system produce antibodies that will fight off a virus.
Diseases
A disease is an illness or condition that interferes with normal body functions.
MMR
MMR stands for measles, mumps and rubella. It is a vaccine that prevents measles, mumps and rubella by making the body produce antibodies that will fight off the viruses.
