Vaccines
Childhood and optional vaccines
Short clinical summary
Immunisation is the best-evidenced preventive intervention in pediatrics. Delivering the vaccines in the national schedule on time is essential. Vaccines outside the schedule, such as rotavirus and meningococcal, are discussed in the clinic according to the child's age, risk status and the family's informed preference.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines introduce the immune system to a disease agent so that protection develops without the illness itself. The body can then respond rapidly and effectively when it meets the real agent. Some vaccines provide adequate protection with a single dose, while most require repeat doses and boosters.
Vaccines in the national schedule
In Türkiye, the expanded immunisation programme includes vaccines such as hepatitis B, BCG (tuberculosis), diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus, polio, Hib, pneumococcus, measles-rubella-mumps, hepatitis A and chickenpox. These are provided free of charge at family health centres.
Current schedule
The detailed age-based schedule table is managed through the CMS in line with the current national programme:
Optional (non-schedule) vaccines
- Rotavirus vaccine: Protects against one of the most common causes of severe diarrhoea and resulting fluid loss in infants. Given orally. The age window for administration is limited, so timing is important.
- Meningococcal vaccines: Aim to protect against meningococcal strains that can cause meningitis and bloodstream infection. The type and number of doses vary with age.
- Influenza vaccine: Considered seasonally for children over 6 months, particularly those with chronic conditions.
Whether these are given is decided together, considering the child's age, health status, nursery attendance, family risk factors and the family's informed preference.
Expected reactions after vaccination
Mild fever, irritability, reduced appetite, sleepiness and redness or tenderness at the injection site may occur within the first 24–48 hours. These are part of the immune response and usually settle on their own.
A cool compress at the injection site and gentle movement of the limb can be soothing. Routine preventive use of antipyretics is not recommended.
Seek medical advice
- Any fever in an infant under 3 months
- Fever lasting more than 48 hours or progressively rising
- Spreading redness, swelling or discharge at the injection site
- Persistent, inconsolable irritability or excessive sleepiness
- Widespread rash; swelling of the face, lips or tongue; breathing difficulty
What if the schedule is delayed?
Delayed vaccines are generally not restarted from the beginning. The plan is reorganised according to catch-up schedules, taking into account the child's age and the number of doses already given. This is why bringing the vaccination card to the appointment matters.
Frequently asked questions
Why do some vaccines sit outside the national schedule?
Inclusion in a national schedule depends on many factors, including disease frequency in that country, disease burden, cost-effectiveness and delivery conditions. Some vaccines outside the schedule still protect against the relevant diseases and may be given after discussion with the family.
Can more than one vaccine be given on the same day?
Many vaccines can be given in the same session at different sites. This does not reduce the immune response and makes it easier to complete the schedule on time.
Should antipyretics be given after vaccination?
Routine preventive use of antipyretics is not recommended. If fever or marked irritability develops, treatment is given at the dose and with the medication advised by the physician.
Can a vaccine be given during a mild cold?
Mild upper respiratory infections without fever are, in most cases, not sufficient reason to postpone vaccination. The decision is made at examination, considering general condition, the presence of fever and the vaccine to be given.
References
- Expanded Programme on Immunisation information from the Turkish Ministry of Health.
- Vaccine administration recommendations of national and international pediatric societies.
- Clinical studies and consensus reports on rotavirus and meningococcal vaccines.
- Vaccine safety surveillance reports.
This content is provided for general information purposes and does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment. Your child's vaccination plan is determined by their physician.
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Author and medical reviewer
Ayça Sözen, MD
Specialist in pediatrics. Currently seeing patients at Acıbadem Ataşehir Hospital.