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Vaccinations are an important part of your baby’s early health care. These injections will help protect your child from numerous life-threatening diseases, such as polio, Meningitis B and C and tuberculosis.
In fact, many infectious diseases have been greatly eliminated thanks to vaccinations. For example, the HSE states that as a result of the Meningitis C jab, the incidence of the disease has fallen drastically.
There are several vaccinations which your GP will recommend. Here’s how to prepare your baby (and yourself!) for the appointments:
1. Ensure your baby is well
The first thing the doctor will do when your baby comes in for their appointment is give them a check-up to make sure they’re well, as they need to be in good health to receive their jabs. If your baby is feeling under the weather, it’s advised to call your doctor beforehand to ask if the appointment needs to be rescheduled.
2. Try to stay calm beforehand
We know it can be difficult, but try to stay as calm as you can for your baby’s first appointment. Babies are intuitive, and they’ll pick up on any nerves or anxiety. You’ll want them to go into that appointment as relaxed as possible. Remember, babies may be small, but they’re much tougher than you might think.
3. Keep a close eye on baby afterwards
While serious reactions to vaccinations are rare, it’s advised to keep a close eye on your baby after the appointment. It’s quite common for babies to experience a mild reaction post-vaccination, like a high temperature or loss of appetite, but if your baby seems very unwell, and has a high fever, a seizure, or swelling of the face, seek medical help immediately. However, if you’re worried in any way, call your doctor right away to explain your concerns.
4. Be prepared for the MenB vaccine
According to the HSE, a fever is more common with the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine, when it's given with the other scheduled vaccinations. It’s recommended to give your baby liquid infant paracetamol, such as CALPOL® Infant Suspension, straight after each vaccination at two and four months, and two more doses: dose two should be given 4-6 hours after dose one and dose three given a further 4-6 hours after dose two.
Always seek medical help if your baby is under three months and their temperature is higher than 37.5°C.
5. Be prepared for the rotavirus vaccine
The rotavirus oral vaccine protects against rotavirus, a gastrointestinal disease. However, mild diarrhoea is a common side effect from the vaccine (1 in 10 children vaccinated according to the HSE), so ensure your child is given plenty of milk to ensure they stay hydrated. As well as this, it’s important to wash your hands carefully after changing your baby’s nappy.
Mild tummy pain is also normal, but if your child shows any excessive pain, or blood in their nappy (rare side effects of the vaccination), seek medical help right away.
For more information visit your GP or contact the HSE on 1850 24 1850.
