Childhood Immunisations

Keeping your children protected, on schedule and close to home.

Immunisation is one of the most effective things you can do to protect your child's health. The National Immunisation Program provides a schedule of free vaccines that protect children against a range of serious diseases from birth through to adolescence. At Neal Street Medical Centre, our GPs and nursing team administer childhood vaccinations at both our Gisborne and Woodend clinics, making it easy to keep your child's immunisations up to date close to home.

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What to Expect

Vaccination appointments are usually quick and straightforward. When you arrive, our reception team will check your child in and confirm which vaccines are due at this visit. Your nurse or GP will run through what your child is receiving, answer any questions you have and administer the vaccines as efficiently and gently as possible.

After the vaccination your child will usually be asked to wait at the clinic for around fifteen minutes so we can monitor for any immediate reactions. Mild reactions such as a sore arm, a low-grade temperature or some grisliness are common and normal in the hours after vaccination. Your nurse will give you clear advice on what to expect and what to do if your child is uncomfortable.

If your child is unwell on the day of a scheduled vaccination, please call us to reschedule. Most vaccinations should not be given to children who are acutely unwell, and we would rather rebook than have your child come in feeling worse than they need to.

How We Help

All vaccines on the National Immunisation Program schedule are provided free of charge to eligible children. The schedule covers protection against diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, hepatitis B, Hib, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus, meningococcal, measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox and HPV among others. Your GP or nurse will administer the vaccines relevant to your child's age at each visit and keep a record of what has been given.
All vaccinations given at our clinics are recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register. You can access your child's immunisation history statement through Medicare Online or myGov at any time. If you are unsure what your child has had or what they are due for, bring them in and we can check their record and advise on next steps.
If your child has missed vaccinations or fallen behind on the schedule for any reason, it is never too late to catch up. Our GPs can review your child's immunisation history and put together a catch-up schedule to get them back on track as quickly and safely as possible.
It is completely normal to have questions or concerns about vaccinations. Our GPs are happy to take the time to talk through how vaccines work, what is in them and why the schedule is designed the way it is. We will always give you honest, evidence-based information so you can make informed decisions about your child's care.
Needles can be a big deal for little ones and not so little ones either. Our nursing team is experienced at helping children feel as comfortable as possible during their vaccination visit. If your child is particularly anxious, let us know when you book and we can make a note for the team so they are prepared.
If you have an existing health condition or take regular medication, a pre-travel consultation is particularly important. Your GP can advise on managing your condition while away, make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip and provide a letter summarising your health needs if required for travel insurance or customs purposes.