While they are extremely important, seeing your tiny little baby receiving their vaccinations can be quite stressful for a lot of mums.

 

However, if you are prepared, know what it's for and the benefit to your baby, then it will feel a lot less daunting. 

 

1. Know what the vaccination is for

Your little one will receive quite a few vaccinations in their first year of life, and it is important you know what each one is for. Vaccinations range from the BCG, 6 in 1 and Men C to PVC (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine), MMR and Hib, and are administered to your child at different stages until they are 13 months.

 

2. Have over-the-counter pain medication available

Your little one may be in pain after the vaccination or even develop a fever, so it is important you have over-the-counter medication at home to help ease their discomfort. Do talk to your GP about what they recommend you give your child BEFORE you administer anything to them.

 

 

3. Know the effects of the vaccination

While side effects are usually rare, each vaccination can give a different reaction like fussiness, loss of appetite, vomiting and/or fever. However, most of these are mild enough to be treated at home – you just need to know what to be on the lookout for.

 

4. Know when you shouldn’t bring your child

While most kids can safely receive a vaccination, there are a number of reasons your infant should not receive their shot on their scheduled date, particularly if they have cold or other illness on the day. Your infant should never get a second dose of a vaccine if they had a previous allergic reaction to it or if they are allergic to a substance in the vaccine. Always talk to the nurse or GP if you have any concerns or worries.

 

5. Know what to do if there is a serious reaction

While they are very rare, serious reactions do happen and you need to be aware of them. Very high fever, unusual behaviour and severe allergic reactions like swelling of the face and throat, hives, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness and/or weakness can happen and you need to know what to do if they occur. Call 999 or take them to your local hospital if it is a reaction that needs immediate attention or take them back to their GP if it's close by.

 

SHARE if your little one is getting their vaccinations soon. 

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