Boonah Medical Centre · Parent Health Guide

Protecting Your Child

A parent's guide to the routine Australian National Immunisation Program (NIP) — what each preventable disease is, how combination vaccines keep injections minimal, and the proven protection they give your baby.

1Hepatitis B 2Tetanus 3Diphtheria 4Whooping Cough 5Polio 6Hib Disease 7Rotavirus 8Pneumococcal (PCV20) 9Meningitis 10Measles 11Mumps 12Rubella 13Chickenpox ✓Consolidated Schedule & Jab Count
Ages CoveredBirth → 4 years StandardAustralian NIP Schedule (ATAGI) FocusRoutine Childhood Vaccinations
Boonah Medical Centre
Australian NIP Schedule · General Parent Information
Preventable Disease 1 · Liver Protection

Hepatitis BHepatitis B virus (HBV)

4-dose course: Birth (hospital) + 2, 4, 6 months
Bundled into the gentle 6-in-one vaccine in infancy.
What is it?
Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver. If a newborn or infant catches hepatitis B, there is a 90% chance it turns into a lifelong (chronic) liver infection that can cause liver scarring or disease decades later. Early immunisation gives babies immediate, lifelong protection.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Infants rarely show obvious symptoms at first
  • Tiredness, poor feeding, mild nausea
  • Yellow tint to the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine and pale bowel motions
  • Long-term risk: chronic liver damage in adulthood
>95%
Lifelong protection after the routine course
Peace of mind: A single quick birth dose in hospital, followed by doses at 2, 4, and 6 months (as part of the 6-in-one injection), gives over 95% protection for life. No childhood booster is needed.
Starting at birth ensures your baby is safeguarded right from day one.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Beasley et al., N Engl J Med; Lee et al., Vaccine.
When is it
given?
Birth (in hospital) 2 months 4 months 6 months
1 single jab at birth, then seamlessly included in the 6-in-one combination vaccine at 2, 4 and 6 months (no extra needles).
Boonah Medical Centre
2 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 2 · Wound Protection

TetanusClostridium tetani

Protected by combination vaccines
Given at 2, 4, 6, 18 months and 4 years.
What is it?
Tetanus bacteria live naturally in soil, dust, and garden dirt. They enter the body through everyday scrapes, cuts, splinters, or puncture wounds. Tetanus produces a toxin causing painful muscle stiffness ("lockjaw") and spasms. It cannot spread from person to person, so individual immunisation is essential.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Stiffness in the jaw and neck muscles ("lockjaw")
  • Difficulty swallowing and painful muscle spasms
  • Fever and sweating
  • Severe muscle contractions that can affect breathing
>99%
Protection after the childhood course
Peace of mind: The childhood vaccine is virtually 100% effective. Because tetanus is in soil everywhere, your child is protected as they learn to crawl, play outside, and explore.
Routine booster doses at 18 months and 4 years keep this high protection active right through the school years.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); WHO Tetanus Position Paper.
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 6 months 18 months (booster) 4 years (booster)
Always combined into combo vaccines (6-in-one at 2, 4, 6 mo; DTPa at 18 mo and 4 yr) — zero standalone needles.
Boonah Medical Centre
3 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 3 · Respiratory & Throat Protection

DiphtheriaCorynebacterium diphtheriae

Protected by combination vaccines
Given at 2, 4, 6, 18 months and 4 years.
What is it?
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection spread through coughs, sneezes, or skin sores. It releases a toxin that causes a thick grey membrane to form across the back of the throat, which can block breathing and strain the heart muscle. High community vaccination has made it very rare in Australia.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Sore throat, mild fever, and tiredness
  • Thick grey coating on the tonsils or throat
  • Swollen neck glands ("bull neck")
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Complications: heart strain or nerve weakness
>95%
Effective at preventing serious illness
Peace of mind: Over 95% of children develop strong, long-lasting immunity after completing their primary infant series.
Childhood boosters at 18 months and 4 years ensure this protective shield remains strong as children start preschool and primary school.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS).
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 6 months 18 months (booster) 4 years (booster)
Bundled into the 6-in-one (2, 4, 6 mo) and DTPa combination boosters (18 mo, 4 yr).
Boonah Medical Centre
4 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 4 · Infant Airway Protection

Whooping CoughBordetella pertussis

Most dangerous for young babies
Protected via maternal pregnancy vaccination + infant schedule.
What is it?
A very contagious respiratory infection causing uncontrollable coughing fits. In young infants whose airways are tiny, it can cause them to gag, vomit, or temporarily stop breathing (apnoea). Vaccinating babies on time, along with maternal vaccination in pregnancy, provides the strongest possible safety net.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Starts like a common cold (runny nose, mild cough)
  • Severe bouts of rapid coughing, often ending in a "whoop"
  • Vomiting or exhaustion after coughing bouts
  • Infants: pauses in breathing (apnoea) or turning blue
  • Cough can linger for several weeks
95%
Protection against severe illness in babies
Peace of mind: Infant immunisation is ~95% effective in preventing severe, hospitalising whooping cough in the vulnerable early months of life.
Mothers receiving the free pregnancy dose (at 20–32 weeks) pass antibodies across the placenta, shielding the baby until their 2-month visit.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook; Mooij et al., Hum Vaccin Immunother; NCIRS Pertussis Report.
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 6 months 18 months (booster) 4 years (booster)
Given as part of the 6-in-one (2, 4, 6 mo) and DTPa boosters (18 mo, 4 yr). Gentle acellular formula.
Boonah Medical Centre
5 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 5 · Nerve & Muscle Protection

PolioInactivated Poliovirus (IPV)

Australia has been certified polio-free since 2000
We use 100% inactivated vaccine (injected) — cannot cause polio.
What is it?
Polio is a virus that can attack the nervous system, leading to permanent muscle weakness or paralysis, usually in the legs or breathing muscles. Thanks to high immunisation rates, wild polio was eliminated in Australia decades ago. Ongoing vaccination keeps our borders protected from imported cases.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Most infections start with fever, headache, or sore throat
  • Stiffness in the neck and back
  • Sudden weakness or floppiness in one or more limbs
  • Permanent paralysis or breathing muscle weakness
>99%
Protection against paralysis after 3 doses
Peace of mind: Australia uses the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV). It is not a live virus, cannot cause polio, and provides >99% complete protection.
It is safely combined into the routine 6-in-one and 4-in-one childhood vaccines.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); WHO Polio Eradication Initiative; healthdirect.gov.au.
Polio in
Australia
1956
Salk vaccine begins routine childhood immunisation
1961–62
Australia's last major polio epidemic
1972
Last locally acquired wild polio case in Australia
2000
Australia certified Polio-Free by WHO
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 6 months 4 years (booster)
Included in the 6-in-one (2, 4, 6 mo) and the 4-in-one preschool booster (4 yr).
Boonah Medical Centre
6 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 6 · Meningitis & Throat Protection

Hib DiseaseHaemophilus influenzae type b

Once the top cause of childhood meningitis
Cases have fallen by over 95% since vaccination began.
What is it?
Hib is a bacterium that can cause severe, life-threatening infections in young children, including bacterial meningitis (swelling around the brain) and epiglottitis (severe swelling that blocks the windpipe). The vaccine has made Hib disease exceptionally rare today.
Signs & Symptoms
  • High fever, irritability, and refusing feeds
  • Stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or drowsiness (meningitis)
  • Noisy breathing, difficulty swallowing, or drooling (epiglottitis)
  • Severe chest infection (pneumonia) or joint swelling
>95%
Reduction in severe infant Hib infections
Peace of mind: The Hib conjugate vaccine is 95–98% effective in stopping invasive Hib infections in babies.
Before 1993, Hib affected hundreds of Australian infants every year; today, full immunisation protects almost every child.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Cochi et al., Pediatr Infect Dis J; NCIRS.
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 6 months 18 months (booster)
Given in the 6-in-one (2, 4, 6 mo) and boosted at 18 months (DTPa-Hib combo).
Boonah Medical Centre
7 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 7 · Severe Gastroenteritis

RotavirusRotavirus oral drops (No Needle)

Given as sweet liquid drops into the mouth
Protects infants from severe, dehydrating gastro.
What is it?
Rotavirus is a very common gut virus that causes severe vomiting, watery diarrhoea, and high fever in babies. It spreads easily in childcare and family homes. Before the vaccine, it was the main reason Australian babies were admitted to hospital on IV drip rehydration.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Frequent watery diarrhoea (lasting up to a week)
  • Frequent vomiting and stomach cramps
  • Fever and refusal to drink fluids
  • Dehydration: fewer wet nappies, dry mouth, no tears when crying
85–90%
Hospital admissions prevented in infants
Peace of mind: Immunisation cuts severe rotavirus illness and hospital visits by over 85%.
No needle involved: It is given as pleasant, sweet liquid drops that babies swallow naturally.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Vesikari et al., N Engl J Med; WHO Rotavirus Position.
How is it
given?
2 months (drops) 4 months (drops) 6 months (if 3-dose brand)
State / Brand Options: Depending on state supply, your baby receives either Rotarix® (2 doses at 2 & 4 mo) or RotaTeq® (3 doses at 2, 4 & 6 mo). Both are sweet oral drops and provide excellent protection.
Boonah Medical Centre
8 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule · Oral Vaccine
Preventable Disease 8 · Ear, Chest & Brain Protection

Pneumococcal DiseaseStreptococcus pneumoniae (PCV20)

Upgraded NIP Schedule (PCV20 - Prevnar 20®)
3-dose course at 2, 4, and 12 months protecting against 20 strains.
What is it?
Pneumococcal bacteria can cause severe infections in young children, including pneumonia (lung infection), bacterial meningitis, bloodstream infections, and severe middle ear infections. The Australian program uses the advanced PCV20 vaccine covering 20 distinct strains.
Signs & Symptoms
  • High fever, rapid breathing, or grunting (pneumonia)
  • Severe ear pain, irritability, pulling at ears (otitis media)
  • Extreme drowsiness, stiff neck, vomiting (meningitis)
  • Pale or blotchy skin and lethargy
20
Bacterial strains covered in one vaccine
Peace of mind: The PCV20 (Prevnar 20®) childhood vaccine broadens protection to 20 key pneumococcal strains, keeping babies safe from both common ear infections and severe invasive disease.
Community vaccination also stops children passing these bacteria to grandparents and younger siblings (herd protection).
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI PCV20 update); ATAGI Statement on Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines.
When is it
given?
2 months 4 months 12 months (booster)
Given as a gentle single injection at 2, 4, and 12 months alongside your child's routine checks.
Boonah Medical Centre
9 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule · 20-valent PCV
Preventable Disease 9 · Brain & Bloodstream Protection

MeningitisMeningococcal disease (ACWY & B)

National NIP: MenACWY at 12 months
Plus State programs (including QLD) funding MenB.
What is it?
Meningococcal bacteria can cause rapid, life-threatening bacterial meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). The main bacterial strains causing disease in Australia are B, W, Y, and C.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Sudden high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness
  • Dislike of bright lights, vomiting, extreme lethargy
  • Cold hands and feet, rapid breathing
  • A dark red or purple pinprick/bruising rash (does not fade under pressure)
>90%
Protection against invasive meningococcal strains
National NIP Protection: The routine MenACWY vaccine (Nimenrix®) is funded nationwide at 12 months, with a routine booster in Year 10 (14–16 yrs).
Queensland & State-Funded MenB: Queensland (and several other states) also fully fund the Meningococcal B vaccine (Bexsero®) for all infants under 2 years (given on a 2 or 3-dose schedule depending on starting age) and for young people aged 15 to 19 years (15 to <20 yrs) through schools, GPs, or pharmacies.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Queensland Health MenB Vaccination Program; NCIRS.
Vaccination
Schedule
12 months (MenACWY - NIP) MenB (<2 yrs: QLD funded) 15–19 yrs (Year 10 / GP / Pharmacy)
MenACWY: 1 dose at 12 mo + Year 10. MenB (Bexsero® in QLD): Free for infants starting <2 yrs (2 or 3 doses by age) and ages 15–19 yrs via GPs, pharmacies, or school clinics.
Boonah Medical Centre
10 / 17
Australian NIP & Queensland MenB Vaccination Program
Preventable Disease 10 · Highly Contagious Rash Illness

MeaslesMeasles virus (part of MMR / MMRV)

One of the most contagious viruses known
Protected in 2 combination doses at 12 and 18 months.
What is it?
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus. It spreads through coughing and sneezing and can stay suspended in room air for up to two hours. Measles causes high fever, severe cough, conjunctivitis, and a full-body rash, and can lead to ear infections, pneumonia, or brain swelling (encephalitis).
Signs & Symptoms
  • High fever, runny nose, tiredness, and harsh cough
  • Red, watery, and light-sensitive eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots inside the cheeks (Koplik spots)
  • Red, blotchy rash starting on the face and spreading down the body
99%
Protection after 2 routine doses
Peace of mind: Two doses of MMR/MMRV vaccine provide 99% lifelong protection against measles.
Because Australian childhood vaccination is so high, measles cannot circulate freely in our community, protecting your baby until they reach 12 months.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Oren et al., Pediatr Infect Dis J; WHO Measles Fact Sheet.
When is it
given?
12 months (MMR) 18 months (MMRV)
Dose 1 at 12 months (MMR) and Dose 2 at 18 months (MMRV). Combined with Mumps, Rubella, and Chickenpox (no extra needles).
Boonah Medical Centre
11 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 11 · Salivary Gland Protection

MumpsMumps virus (part of MMR / MMRV)

Protected in the MMR combination vaccine
Given at 12 and 18 months of age.
What is it?
Mumps is a viral infection that causes painful swelling of the salivary glands below the ears ("hamster cheeks"). While many children recover smoothly, mumps can cause painful swelling of the testicles (orchitis) in boys, mild viral meningitis, or permanent hearing loss.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Painful swelling on one or both sides of the jaw and cheeks
  • Fever, headache, and muscle aches
  • Pain when chewing or swallowing
  • Complications: testicular swelling (orchitis) or ear inflammation
~90%
Protection against mumps after 2 doses
Peace of mind: The 2-dose MMR course is ~90% effective in stopping mumps infection and drastically reduces the severity of any mild breakthrough cases.
It is delivered smoothly inside the combination MMR and MMRV vaccines.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); CDC Mumps Clinical Guide; Orenstein et al.
When is it
given?
12 months (MMR) 18 months (MMRV)
Given alongside Measles and Rubella at 12 months, and with Chickenpox at 18 months.
Boonah Medical Centre
12 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 12 · Protecting Families & Pregnancies

RubellaGerman Measles (part of MMR / MMRV)

Eliminated in Australia thanks to vaccination
Protects children and prevents severe pregnancy complications.
What is it?
Rubella (German measles) is usually a mild viral illness with a pink rash and swollen neck glands. However, if a pregnant woman catches rubella in early pregnancy, it can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome — leading to severe heart defects, deafness, or vision loss in the baby. Immunising all children protects future generations.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Mild fever and runny nose
  • Fine pink rash starting on the face and spreading
  • Swollen, tender lymph glands behind the ears and neck
  • Aching joints (more common in older children/adults)
>98%
Lifelong protection after 2 doses
Peace of mind: Two doses provide over 98% lifelong immunity. Australia was certified by the WHO as having eliminated rubella transmission.
By vaccinating your child, you protect them and help safeguard pregnant mothers and unborn babies across the community.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); WHO Regional Verification Commission for Rubella Elimination.
When is it
given?
12 months (MMR) 18 months (MMRV)
Protected within the standard MMR (12 mo) and MMRV (18 mo) shots.
Boonah Medical Centre
13 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
Preventable Disease 13 · Itchy Blistering Rash

ChickenpoxVaricella-zoster virus (VZV)

Given at 18 months as the MMRV vaccine
Prevents severe blister crops, skin infections, and future shingles.
What is it?
Chickenpox is a very contagious virus causing crops of itchy, fluid-filled blisters across the body. While often thought of as an uncomfortable childhood illness, it can lead to severe secondary bacterial skin infections (staph/strep), chest infections, or scarring. The vaccine provides gentle, effective protection.
Signs & Symptoms
  • Mild fever, loss of appetite, and tiredness
  • Itchy red spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters
  • Blisters burst and form crusty scabs over 3 to 5 days
  • Complications: infected sores from scratching, pneumonia
>95%
Protection against severe chickenpox
Peace of mind: The chickenpox vaccine is over 95% effective against moderate-to-severe chickenpox and eliminates the risk of severe hospitalising complications.
Vaccination also lowers the chance of developing shingles (reactivated virus) later in life.
Sources: Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI); Lettau et al., Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med; NCIRS.
When is it
given?
18 months (as MMRV)
Delivered conveniently as part of the MMRV combination shot at 18 months (protecting against Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Chickenpox all in one).
Boonah Medical Centre
14 / 17
Australian NIP Schedule
At-a-Glance Reference for Parents

The Complete Childhood Schedule

Routine Schedule & Jab Counts
Including Queensland-funded Meningococcal B (Bexsero®).
Age Vaccines Given Total Needles / Doses Preventable Diseases Covered
Birth (In hospital) Hepatitis B (monovalent) 💉 1 jab Hepatitis B (immediate newborn liver protection)
2 Months (from 6–8 wks) 6-in-One (DTPa-HepB-IPV-Hib) Pneumococcal (PCV20) Meningococcal B (Bexsero®)
Rotavirus oral drops 		💉 3 jabs 💧 1 oral drops Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hep B, Polio, Hib, Pneumococcal, MenB + Rotavirus
4 Months 6-in-One (DTPa-HepB-IPV-Hib) Pneumococcal (PCV20) Meningococcal B (Bexsero®)
Rotavirus oral drops 		💉 3 jabs 💧 1 oral drops Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hep B, Polio, Hib, Pneumococcal, MenB + Rotavirus
6 Months 6-in-One (DTPa-HepB-IPV-Hib) (*Rotavirus drops only if on 3-dose RotaTeq®) 💉 1 jab (+ drops if RotaTeq) Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Hep B, Polio, Hib (completes primary infant series)
12 Months MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) MenACWY (Nimenrix®) Pneumococcal (PCV20) Meningococcal B (Bexsero®) 💉 4 quick jabs Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Meningococcal A/C/W/Y, Meningococcal B, Pneumococcal
18 Months MMRV (MMR + Chickenpox) DTPa-Hib Booster 💉 2 jabs Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chickenpox, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Hib
4 Years 4-in-One Booster (DTPa-IPV) 💉 1 jab Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Polio (Preschool / School Entry Shield)
Boonah Medical Centre
15 / 17
Australian NIP & Queensland Immunisation Schedule (including MenB Bexsero® at 2, 4, 12 mo)
Evidence & Clinical Backing

Where the Evidence Comes From

Transparent, peer-reviewed science
Backed by Australia's peak medical and immunisation bodies.

Authoritative Australian Guidelines

  • · Australian Immunisation Handbook (ATAGI): The authoritative clinical guide developed by leading Australian infectious disease specialists and pediatricians.
  • · National Immunisation Program (NIP): The national framework that ensures every child in Australia receives world-standard, evidence-based vaccine protection.
  • · NCIRS (National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance): Australia's independent expert research organisation monitoring vaccine safety and disease rates.
  • · Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Rigorously tests and continuously monitors every vaccine brand for safety and purity in Australia.

Pivotal Clinical Evidence

  • · Proven Safety Record: Millions of doses given across Australia with continuous national real-time safety surveillance (AusVaxSafety).
  • · Long-Term Real-World Success: Diseases like Polio, Diphtheria, and Congenital Rubella have been virtually eliminated in Australia because of high routine vaccine uptake.
  • · Timing Matters: Milestone ages (2, 4, 6, 12, 18 mo, 4 yr) are precisely calculated to protect babies right before natural maternal antibodies fade.
General Scope This guide outlines the routine childhood schedule for the general population. Special programs (such as extra vaccines for medically vulnerable children or travel requirements) can be discussed individually with your GP.
Boonah Medical Centre
16 / 17
Australian NIP Evidence Base
Your Clinic Visit

What to Expect & How to Prepare

Warm, gentle care at Boonah Medical Centre
Including vital MenB (Bexsero®) paracetamol advice.

Before Your Visit & MenB Advice

  • · MenB (Bexsero®) Paracetamol Rule: For babies under 2 receiving Bexsero, Queensland Health recommends 1 dose of paracetamol 30 minutes before (or as soon as possible after), followed by 2 further doses 6 hours apart, even if your baby has no fever (reduces post-vaccine fever).
  • · Feed or cuddle: Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or gentle cuddling immediately before and after soothes babies quickly.
  • · Comfortable clothing: Dress baby in easy-to-remove clothing so thighs or arms are easily accessible.

Normal Post-Vaccine Care

  • · Follow-up paracetamol doses: Continue the 2 post-vaccine paracetamol doses (6 hrs apart) as planned for Bexsero visits. Check weight-based dosing with your GP or nurse.
  • · Normal mild reactions: A slight fever, extra sleepiness, or mild redness at injection sites are normal signs of building immunity. Offer plenty of feeds and cuddles.
  • · Automatic AIR records: Doses given at Boonah Medical Centre are uploaded directly to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) for Medicare and Child Care records.
Boonah Medical Centre
17 / 17
Queensland Health MenB Paracetamol Guidelines & General Pre/After-Care