Immunisation is a safe and effective way to protect against potentially serious diseases and infections. Many serious diseases and infections are rare in Australia today because of immunisation. If we stop immunising our children, these diseases can come back.
Vaccinations trigger an immune response that protects people if they come into contact with disease again in their day to day lives. All vaccines in Australia must pass strict safety tests before they are approved for use. They are then continually monitored for safety and effectiveness.
From birth, free vaccinations are available to children according to the Childhood Immunisation Schedule and then through immunisation programs in primary and high school. These are all provided through the National Immunisation Program.
Getting your child immunised
Community Health has immunisation teams based at our child health centres in:
- Lockridge
- Mirrabooka
- Armadale
- Kwinana
- Hilton
- Mandurah
- Central Immunisation Clinic, West Perth
Other child health centres across the metro area hold immunisation clinics during the week. View the details and times for immunisations (PDF 804kb) at these clinics.
School based immunisations are done at school with your consent. Read more about school based vaccinations.
Visit Healthy WA – Where can I get immunised? for details on child health centres that offer immunisation clinics and other locations you can get your child immunised at.
After immunisation
Sometimes after immunisation, the injection site might be sore for one to two days or your child might have a fever.
Vaccines may also cause side effects. Read more about possible side effects of vaccines on Healthy WA.
If you are worried, visit the doctor or After Hours GP or phone HealthDirect on 1800 022 222.