Babies and children are immunised so they are able to get the best possible protection against preventable diseases. Whole of life immunisation starts at birth and benefits your child, family and our community.
About this service
Babies and children need to be immunised on time so they can get the best possible protection against preventable diseases.
You can see the immunisation schedule on the Australia Government website. This schedule lets you know when your child’s immunisations are due.
The seasonal influenza (flu) immunisation is also available for children aged over 6 months and under 5 years of age. This immunisation is free and available at the Early Childhood Immunisation clinics.
You can also ask your GP to immunise your baby or child.
Our clinics are all run by Registered Nurses.
Who we care for
We immunise babies and children up to their 6th birthday.
Our services are free to Medicare and Asylum Seeker card holders
How to access this service
You can make an early childhood immunisation appointment by calling Central Health Intake on (02) 5124 9977.
Please don’t forget to bring your child’s personal health record (Blue Book) with you to record all immunisations your child receives.
What to expect
Your child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive their vaccination at one of our Early Childhood Immunisation Clinics.
If a carer other than the parent or guardian is with the child for the appointment, written consent from the parent or guardian and a phone call at the time of appointment will be required for the immunisation to proceed.
The nurse will record your baby’s or child’s immunisation in their blue book.
You will be required to stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after the immunisation.
Like all medications there can be some reactions to immunisations. The most common reactions are:
- Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site for 1-2 days and possibly a hard lump at the injection site for a few weeks
- Mild fever that doesn’t last long
- Generally unsettled, crying or sleepy
You can help your child at home by:
- Offering more breastfeeds or give extra water (if not breastfeeding)
- Using paracetamol for pain or fever
- Washing your hands after changing your child’s nappy
- Dressing your child in light clothing if they have a fever
You should seek medical help if:
- Paracetamol doesn’t help pain or fever
- Reactions are not going away
- Reactions are getting worse
If you think your child has experienced a side effect other than those common to immunisation, please follow the advice on Adverse Events Following Immunisation on the ACT Health website.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Your child’s personal health record (Blue Book)
Where we’re located
Our Early Childhood Immunisation Clinics are available by appointment only at the following locations and on the following days:
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Resources
- You can find out more information about vaccinating your child or baby on the ACT Health website.
- Australia Government
- Talking about immunisation
