Protection levels

Normally after a completed vaccination programme almost all children will have lifelong protection against polio, likely lifleong protection against measles, mumps, rubella and meningitis C, at least 10 years protection against diptheria and tetanus and around three years against whooping cough.

However, vaccines cannot always guarantee complete protection. Sometimes this is because the body has not produced enough antibodies. Immunisations may need topping up and boosters may be needed as children get older.

If a child does develop any of the diseases some time after being immunised, it is likely to be in a milder form.

•   What is immunisation?
•   When vaccines are given
•   Should I have my child vaccinated?
•   Contraindications
•   Homeopathy
•   Natural immunity
•   Hib: the Hib form of meningitis
•   DTP: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough)
•   Polio
•   MMR
•   BCG
•   Hepatitis B
•   Finding out more