
Dr Adriana feature video guide can be view on Doctor Anywhere instagram post.
Your child’s first vaccination is a major milestone—one that sets the foundation for their lifelong health and protects them against serious diseases. As part of the Ministry of Health’s National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), your child’s vaccination is a convenient and important step in protecting their health.
Opting for a home-based vaccination ensures that your little one can receive their immunisations in the comfort of your home, providing added convenience for parents and a familiar setting for children. Here’s what you can expect during your child’s first vaccination appointment.
1. Preparing for the Appointment
- Choose a comfortable, well-lit area in your home for the vaccination. A chair or bed with good back support is ideal.
- Dress your child in loose clothing to make it easier for the healthcare professional to access their arm or thigh for the injection.
- Have some of your child’s favourite toys, books, or snacks nearby to help distract and comfort them.
- You’ll also need to have your child’s health booklet ready, as it will be updated during the visit.
- You may want to complete the relevant screening developmental checklist based on your child’s age prior to the vaccination visit.
- If you have questions about the vaccine, potential side effects, or your child’s medical history, prepare them in advance to discuss with the healthcare professional during the visit.
- You may be asked to hold off feeding your child around 30 minutes before and after administration of oral vaccination during 2 and 4 month-old visits.
2. During the Appointment
Initial Health Assessment
The attending doctor will conduct a brief check to ensure your child is healthy and fit to receive the vaccine. If there are concerns, such as a fever, the vaccination may be deferred.
Administering the Vaccine
Vaccines are typically given as an injection into the thigh for infants and younger children or the upper arm for older children. The process is quick, lasting only a few seconds.
- Hold your child securely to minimise movement during the injection.
- Soothe them with calm words or a favourite toy to help them feel safe.
3. After the Appointment
After the vaccination, the attending doctor will observe your child for 5-10 minutes to monitor for any immediate reactions. This is a standard precaution to ensure your child’s safety.
Post-Vaccination Care
It’s normal for children to experience mild side effects, such as:
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Slight fever
- Fussiness or tiredness
These usually resolve within a couple of days. You can apply a cool, damp cloth to the injection site to reduce discomfort. If you have concerns about your child’s symptoms, contact the healthcare provider for advice.
Final Tips for a Smooth Appointment
- Ensure your child is well-rested and fed before the appointment.
- Create a calm atmosphere at home to help your child feel secure.
- Be prepared to comfort and reassure your child during and after the vaccination.
Ensure your child stays protected with a convenient home-based vaccination. Doctor Anywhere offers home-based vaccinations, fully subsidised for Singaporeans based on the Ministry of Health’s National Childhood Immunisation Schedule, with standard rates for non-Singaporeans.
Download a handy schedule, and book your child’s vaccination appointment online:
https://docs.doctoranywhere.com/Home_Child_Vacs_NCIS.pdf