Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI)
Systematic assessment and treatment for common illnesses in children under five.
Child Health
Immunisation
Vaccines for you and your children, on schedule, protecting the whole community.
Child Health
What this service is
Immunisation works by training the immune system to recognise a disease before it meets it. Vaccines are given in a planned schedule, and each dose builds on the protection provided by the one before it.
Immunisation is one of the most effective health interventions available. It protects your child, it protects the people around them who cannot be vaccinated, and it takes pressure off families and off the health system.
We follow the national immunisation schedule and we check where each child is up to. If you are unsure whether a dose is due, bring the clinic card and we will work it out with you.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
Check what is due
Your clinic card is reviewed so that we can see exactly which doses are due and which have already been given.
The vaccination
The vaccine is given in the correct site, using the correct syringe and diluent for that vaccine.
A short wait
You are asked to wait in the clinic for a short period afterwards, which is recommended in case of a reaction.
Recording the dose
The vaccination is recorded on your clinic card and in the clinic register, so nothing is missed next time.
Aftercare advice
We explain the common reactions to expect, what to do about them, and which reactions need urgent attention.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- Your child is due for their next scheduled vaccination.
- You have a new baby and have not yet started the schedule.
- You are not sure whether a dose is due, or whether one has been missed.
- You need your own vaccination record, for example for travel or work.
- You would like to know what a vaccine contains, or what reactions to expect.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
Is it safe to immunise my child?
Yes. Vaccines are thoroughly tested and monitored, and the protection they give far outweighs the risk of the illnesses they prevent.
What if my child has a mild cold?
A mild cold or low-grade fever is usually not a reason to postpone. Please tell us about any symptoms so that we can make the decision together.
Can my child be vaccinated if they are allergic to eggs?
Some vaccines contain small amounts of egg protein. Tell us about any allergy and we will choose an appropriate vaccine or schedule the appointment differently.
What if we have missed an appointment?
Please come back as soon as you can. We can work out a catch-up schedule so that your child is protected again as quickly as possible.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside immunisation.
Postnatal Care
Follow-up support after birth for the mother, the baby, and the family adjusting to a new routine.
Antenatal Care
Regular monitoring, health guidance and a listening ear through every stage of your pregnancy.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.