What is immunisation?

Immunisation is using a vaccine to protect people from getting a disease.
Vaccines contain either small parts of the viruses or bacteria which cause
the disease, or very small amounts of the chemicals these viruses produce.
The vaccine ingredients have been treated so that they do not cause disease.
When we are given a vaccine, either by injection or by mouth, our bodies
are stimulated to make substances called antibodies which defend us against
future infections.

Our bodies make special cells which can remember and recognise infections, so if we
meet the disease later on, the body’s defences (the antibodies) fight, and prevent
the infection from getting a hold.

The usual programme of infant vaccinations in the UK is spread out over
several months. It’s important to complete the course of vaccinations
for maximum protection. Keep a record of which vaccinations your child
has, and when.

• What
  protection levels do vaccines offer?
• Natural
  immunity
• The diseases your child can be vaccinated against
  
• The
  vaccination timetable
• Why should I immunise my child?
• What to expect on the day
• What
  if my baby is premature?
• Contradictions
• Should
  I have my child vaccinated?
• Can
  homeopathy be as effective as vaccination?