Protection levels

Vaccines provide almost all children with long-lasting and effective protection. 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