It's important to consult with our trained healthcare professionals at Singleton Medical Centre and Skin Clinic for personalised vaccination advice and to address any concerns or questions you may have about vaccines. Your healthcare provider can provide up-to-date information on vaccination recommendations and schedules.
Vaccinations, also known as immunisations or shots, are medical interventions that help the body develop immunity to specific diseases. They involve administering a weakened or inactivated form of a pathogen (or a part of it) to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells.
Vaccinations are essential for preventing infectious diseases and their potentially severe complications. They contribute to herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as individuals with weakened immune systems.
Vaccines introduce a harmless piece of the pathogen, a weakened version, or a similar substance into the body. The immune system recognises it as foreign and creates antibodies to fight it. If the person is exposed to the real pathogen in the future, their immune system can respond more effectively.
Vaccines undergo rigorous testing in clinical trials for safety and efficacy before they are approved for use. Most people experience no serious side effects from vaccines. Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare.
Common side effects of vaccines include mild pain or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, and mild fatigue. These side effects are generally short-lived and are a sign that the body is building immunity.
The number of vaccines a child needs varies by age and location. Vaccination schedules are created to protect children from a range of diseases.
Yes, adults need vaccines too. Some vaccines require booster shots, and certain vaccines are recommended for adults, especially as they age.
Influenza, tetanus, and shingles vaccines are examples of those commonly recommended for adults.
Some vaccines are safe and recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby. Discuss with your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines are appropriate for you. Many vaccines are safe while breastfeeding.
Vaccine ingredients are carefully reviewed for safety. Common components may include antigens (the part of the pathogen that triggers the immune response), preservatives, and adjuvants to enhance the immune response. All ingredients are used in safe quantities.
Some regions allow medical or religious exemptions to vaccination requirements. However, exemptions can pose public health risks. Policies and regulations regarding exemptions vary by location.
Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population is immune to a disease, either through vaccination or prior infection, making it less likely for the disease to spread. This protects vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated.
Vaccine effectiveness against new variants may vary, but vaccines are still valuable in reducing the severity of illness and the risk of hospitalisation. Researchers continually monitor and update vaccines to address new variants.
Find the National Immunisation Schedule here;
