About child immunisation

If you have a new born baby or a child who is five years or younger, you must immunise the child at your nearest clinic.

Immunisation helps to strengthen your child’s immune system to fight diseases like polio, measles, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tuberculosis (TB) and meningitis. It is a must that your new born baby or child up to the age of five years be immunised.

Note: You are expected to immunise your child and the child’s record of immunisation can be requested when you apply for school or social grants.

What you should do

• Visit your local clinic or a medical practitioner.
• Fill in a form which is provided at the clinic.
• If you are a previous visitor, you should bring your card with you.
• Inform the nurse of your child’s age and your child’s immunisation history
• The nurse will take your child’s weight, length and the head circumference to determine if your child is growing at the expected rate. 
• Your child will be immunised according to his/her age. 
• You will be advised on how to handle the child’s reaction to the vaccine.
• The next immunisation date will be given to you.
  

Note: Children sometimes develop a fever from the vaccine, it is important to inform the nurse if your child is allergic to eggs.

How long does it take

Immunisation is done immediately at the clinic.

How much does it cost

Immunisation is done free of charge at state owned clinics and hospitals. Private medical facilities will charge a minimum fee.

Forms to complete

There are no forms to complete.

Note: You will be issued a card after you have given birth and discharged from hospital. Your card will have a “Road Health Chart” which indicates your child’s immunisation dates.

Who to contact

Visit your nearest clinic or hospital.