Immunisation and vaccination

Immunisation services

Immunisation (or vaccination) is a way to protect a person from a particular disease. This is done by administering a substance that helps the body defend itself from the disease if the person comes into contact with it.

In many cases, a vaccine can provide lifelong protection against a disease but sometimes a follow up booster (or extra dose) is needed.

GPs perform the majority of the vaccinations in childhood but HPV (human papilloma virus) jabs and some boosters are given in schools.

More information

To find out more, go to the Patient immunisations or NHS vaccinations websites.