Importance of Immunisation

National Immunisation Awareness Month (NIAM), observed every August, is a vital opportunity to highlight the importance of vaccinations for people of all ages. Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and others from serious diseases, including measles, flu, COVID-19, and whooping cough. By getting vaccinated, individuals not only shield themselves from potentially life-threatening illnesses but also help safeguard their families, communities, and those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.

Vaccines work by training the immune system to recognise and fight specific infections. Thanks to widespread immunisation programs, many diseases that once caused widespread illness and death have been dramatically reduced or even eliminated in some areas. However, these diseases can return if vaccination rates drop.

Taking up the vaccinations offered to you is a simple yet powerful way to contribute to public health. Whether it's childhood immunisations, seasonal flu shots, or boosters in adulthood, staying up to date with vaccines ensures long-term protection.

During National Immunisation Awareness Month, it's a good time to check your records, speak to your GP surgery, and encourage others to do the same. Immunisation saves lives — protect yourself and those around you by staying vaccinated.

It's important that vaccines are given on time for the best protection, but if you or your child missed a vaccine, contact your GP to catch up.

NHS vaccination schedule

	Vaccines for babies under 1 year old
Age	Vaccines
8 weeks	6-in-1 vaccineRotavirus vaccineMenB vaccine
12 weeks	6-in-1 vaccine (2nd dose)MenB vaccine (2nd dose)Rotavirus vaccine (2nd dose)
16 weeks	6-in-1 vaccine (3rd dose)Pneumococcal vaccine

	Vaccines for children aged 1 to 15
Age	Vaccines
1 year	MMR vaccinePneumococcal vaccine (2nd dose)MenB vaccine (3rd dose)Hib/MenC vaccine (for children born on or before 30 June 2024)
1 year and 6 months (18 months)	6-in-1 vaccine (4th dose for children born on or after 1 July 2024) MMR vaccine (2nd dose for children born on or after 1 July 2024)
2 to 15 years	Children's flu vaccine (every year until children finish Year 11 of secondary school)
3 years and 4 months	MMR vaccine (2nd dose for children born on or before 30 June 2024)4-in-1 pre-school booster vaccine
12 to 13 years	HPV vaccine
14 years	Td/IPV vaccine (3-in-1 teenage booster)MenACWY vaccine

	Vaccines for adults
Age	Vaccines
65 years	Flu vaccine (given every year after turning 65)Pneumococcal vaccineShingles vaccine (if you turned 65 on or after 1 September 2023)
70 to 79 years	Shingles vaccine
75 to 79 years	RSV vaccine
75 years and over	COVID-19 vaccine (usually given in spring and winter)

	Vaccines for pregnant women
When it's offered	Vaccines
During flu season	Flu vaccine in pregnancy
Around 20 weeks pregnant	Whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine
From 28 weeks pregnant	RSV vaccine