A parent's guide to the childhood vaccination schedule

Immunisation is the single most effective preventive step a parent can take. The national schedule begins at birth with BCG, oral polio and hepatitis B, followed by primary doses at six, ten and fourteen weeks.

Between nine and twelve months children receive measles-rubella and a vitamin A dose, with booster doses through the second year. Additional vaccines such as pneumococcal, rotavirus, typhoid, hepatitis A, varicella and influenza are commonly advised after discussion with your paediatrician.

Mild fever, irritability or swelling at the injection site for a day or two is expected. Contact your paediatrician if fever crosses 102°F, persists beyond 48 hours, or if your child is unusually drowsy or refuses feeds.

Bring your immunisation card to every visit. If a dose has been missed, catch-up schedules exist — no child needs to restart the entire course.