Baby vaccination schedule in the UK

As a new parent, you want to keep your baby safe and healthy. One of the best ways to do this is through vaccinations. Vaccines protect your little one from serious diseases that can make them very sick or even cause lasting harm.

In the UK, the NHS offers free vaccines for all babies and children. These vaccines have been carefully tested and are very safe. They work by teaching your baby's body how to fight off dangerous germs before they can cause illness.

Let’s talk about the baby vaccination schedule in the UK. You will know when your baby receives each shot, what diseases it prevents, and what to expect afterwards. This knowledge will help you feel prepared to keep your baby healthy and safe.

What is The UK’s Vaccination Programme?

The UK has a vaccination programme run by the NHS. This means every baby and child can get vaccines for free. The programme has been running for many years and has made dangerous childhood diseases very rare in the UK.

Yes, vaccines are very safe. Before any vaccine is given to babies, it goes through years of testing.  The diseases that vaccines prevent are much more dangerous than the vaccines themselves. For example, before vaccines, diseases like measles and whooping cough killed many babies every year.

The Complete UK Baby Vaccination Timeline

The schedule shows when your baby will get each shot and what illnesses those shots prevent. You don't need to memorise all the names; your doctor or nurse will go over everything with you at each visit.

At Birth (if needed)

Hepatitis B vaccine: Some babies get this vaccine right after birth if their mum has hepatitis B. This prevents the baby from catching this liver infection from their mum.

BCG vaccine (tuberculosis): This vaccine is only given to babies who are at higher risk of catching TB. Your doctor will tell you if your baby needs it.

At 8 Weeks Old (2 Months)

This is your baby's first big vaccination appointment. They'll receive several vaccines, but some are combined into a single injection to make the process easier.

6-in-1 vaccine: This one injection protects against six different diseases:

• Diphtheria - a severe throat infection
• Tetanus - causes painful muscle spasms
• Whooping cough - leads to severe coughing fits that can stop babies’ breathing
• Polio - can cause paralysis
• Hib - causes meningitis and other serious infections
• Hepatitis B - causes liver damage

Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV): This vaccine provides immunity against pneumococcal bacteria, which is responsible for pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.

Rotavirus vaccine: This is given as drops in your baby's mouth, not an injection. It protects against a virus that causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting.

MenB vaccine: This protects against meningococcal serogroup B (MenB), a serious brain infection that can be deadly.

At 12 Weeks Old (3 Months)

Second 6-in-1 vaccine: Your baby gets another dose of the same vaccine to make sure they're fully protected.

Second rotavirus vaccine: Another dose of the oral drops to complete protection against rotavirus.

At 16 Weeks Old (4 Months)

Third 6-in-1 vaccine: The final dose of this vaccine gives your baby complete protection against all six diseases.

Second MenB vaccine: The second dose of the meningitis B vaccine.

At 12-13 Months Old (1 Year)

Hib/MenC vaccine: This protects against Hib (which they've already had vaccines for) and meningitis C, another type of brain infection.

MMR vaccine: This protects against three diseases:

• Measles - causes a rash and can lead to serious complications.
• Mumps - causes swollen glands and can affect hearing.
• Rubella - can cause serious problems if caught during pregnancy.

Second pneumococcal vaccine (PCV): Another dose to build up stronger protection.

Third MenB vaccine: The final dose of the meningitis B vaccine.

How to Prepare for Your Vaccination Appointments?

Making your baby's shots easier is doable! Here's how to have smooth and stress-free visits.

What to bring to your appointment?

Your baby's red book: This is the most important thing to bring. The red book is your baby's Personal Child Health Record. The nurse will record which vaccines your baby has received and when.

A list of any questions: Write down any questions you have before you go. It's easy to forget what you want to ask when you're at the appointment.

Extra supplies: Pack extra nappies, wipes, and a change of clothes. Some babies have accidents when they're upset, and it's always better to be prepared.

How To Manage Side Effects and Do Aftercare?

Most babies have no problems after their vaccinations, but some might have mild side effects. Let’s have a look:

Mild fever
Many babies experience a slight fever after vaccinations, especially after receiving the MenB vaccine. A mild fever (up to 38°C) is normal and usually lasts 1-2 days.

Sore or red injection site
The spot where your baby had their injection might be a bit red, swollen, or tender for a day or two. This is your baby's body responding to the vaccine.

Being a bit grumpy or sleepy
Your baby might be more fussy than usual or want to sleep more after vaccinations. This is normal and should get better within a day or two.

Less appetite
Some babies don't want to feed as much as usual for a day after their vaccinations. Keep offering feeds, but don't worry if they're not as hungry.

Mild rash
A few babies get a mild rash after the MMR vaccine, usually about a week later. This is normal and not dangerous.

Pain relief options for babies

If your baby seems uncomfortable after their vaccinations, there are safe ways to help them feel better.

Paracetamol for babies: You can give your baby paracetamol if they have a fever or seem to be in pain.

Ibuprofen for babies over 3 months: If your baby is over 3 months old, you can also use baby ibuprofen. Follow the same rules as for paracetamol.

What not to use?

• Don't use aspirin for babies or children under 16.
• Don't use adult pain relief medicines.
• Don't put ice directly on the injection site.
  

You may also like to read: What to do when baby has a fever (Advice + When to Call GP)

Final Thoughts

Vaccinations are one of the best gifts you can give your baby. Vaccines protect your baby from serious illnesses. In the UK, the vaccination schedule is safe, free, and designed to provide your baby with the best protection at the right time. When your baby gets their vaccines on schedule, you're not just keeping them healthy; you're also helping to protect other children in your community.