Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community from serious vaccine-preventable diseases.
Vaccines train the immune system to recognize specific infections and build protection against them. Immunization has helped prevent millions of illnesses, complications, and deaths worldwide. Keeping your vaccinations up to date is not only something for babies and young children.
Routine Vaccines for Children and Adults
Children need vaccines at specific ages because they are particularly vulnerable to certain infections. Depending on the national immunization schedule, childhood vaccination protects against diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, measles, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcal disease, rotavirus and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Immunization doesn't stop after childhood. Depending on age and circumstances, adolescents and adults may have recommendations for vaccines such as HPV, tetanus/diphtheria-containing vaccines, influenza, COVID-19 for recommended groups, hepatitis B and other vaccines based on individual risk and national recommendations. WHO's current routine-immunization guidance covers vaccination across the life course.
“Vaccines undergo rigorous testing before introduction and vaccine safety continues to be monitored after vaccines are in use.”
This is the position of the World Health Organization on vaccine safety. It emphasizes that before believing or sharing a vaccine claim you see on social media, you should check whether it comes from a trustworthy health authority or qualified healthcare professional.
What To Do About Missed Doses, Pregnancy and Travel
Sometimes a child or adult may miss a scheduled dose because of illness, travel, lack of access to services, relocation, or simply forgetting. A missed dose does not automatically mean you have to start the entire vaccination series again. WHO recommends catch-up vaccination for people who are behind on vaccines, according to the applicable national or clinical schedule.
Pregnancy is an important time to discuss vaccination with a qualified healthcare professional. Some vaccines are recommended during pregnancy because they can protect the mother and help protect the newborn, while certain vaccines may be postponed. For travel, some destinations may have specific vaccination requirements or recommendations. Discuss your destination early enough with a travel-health service to receive any vaccines that may be recommended.
Why Immunization Records and Community Protection Matter
Vaccination helps protect the vaccinated individual and contributes to community protection. High vaccination coverage makes it harder for some infectious diseases to spread, helping protect people who cannot receive certain vaccines. Some vaccines can cause temporary effects such as pain at the injection site, mild fever, tiredness and headache, which are often short-lived. However, if you experience a severe reaction, seek medical attention promptly.
Keep your immunization records in a safe place and keep a clear photograph or secure digital copy. Healthcare workers should also pay attention to their vaccination status as they can be exposed through work and may transmit infections to vulnerable patients. Always ask your healthcare provider what you specifically need based on age, medical conditions, occupation and local disease patterns.
M2NICE Editorial Note: While this guide covers general WHO recommendations, your actual vaccine needs depend on Nigeria's National Routine Immunization Schedule. Visit your PHC, antenatal clinic or talk to your doctor to review your personal immunization record and catch-up if needed.
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