What is immunisation?
Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting your child against certain diseases. Children and young people in Ireland are entitled to certain
vaccinations and immunisation services free of charge. These vaccines are provided in a range of settings: by your GP, in hospitals, at Health Centres, at home or at school.

Is immunisation free?
Vaccinations under the Childhood Immunisation Programme in Ireland are provided free of charge to all children. The childhood immunisation programme protects children from the following: Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough (Pertussis), HiB (Haemophilus influenzae B), Polio, Meningitis C, Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

Are vaccines safe?
The vaccines used in Ireland are safe. All medicines can cause side effects, but with vaccines these are usually mild, like a sore arm or leg or a slight fever.
Serious side effects to vaccines are extremely rare. Research from around the world shows that immunisation is the safest way to protect your child's health. Your doctor or nurse can discuss the risks with you before giving your child their vaccines. All the recommended vaccines used to protect children in Ireland are licensed by the Irish Medicines Board or the European Medicines Evaluation Agency. They are allowed to be used only after they have been shown to be both effective and safe.

Where can I get my child immunised?
The HSE recommends that all parents bring their children for immunisation, which is free from your GP. If you have any more questions or need more information, you can visit the HSE website - www.immunisation.ie, or speak to your GP or your Public Health Nurse in your Local Health Centre.
You can also call the HSE infoline: 1850 24 1850, for more information.

Download the HSE information booklet ‘Your child’s immunisation – a guide for parents’