Immunisations

Immunisation protects against serious diseases. Once you have been immunised, your body is better at fighting these diseases should you come into contact with them.

When enough people are immunised against an infection, it is more difficult for it to be spread to those who are not immunised. This is called 'herd immunity' or 'population protection'. This is very important in order to protect certain vulnerable children and adults.

Diseases that are caused by viruses cannot be cured with antibiotics. The only way to control them is by immunisation.

With continued immunisation programmes such diseases may no longer be a threat.

There are several immunisation programmes running in Scotland for children, adults and pregnant women. Find out more information here.

Children are invited through the national programme. The health visitor will vaccinate pre-school children and the school nurse will vaccinate children at school.