Question 1

What is the UK childhood vaccination schedule in 2024?

Accepted Answer

The UK routine childhood immunisation schedule includes: 6-in-1 (DTaP/IPV/Hib/HepB) at 8, 12 and 16 weeks; Rotavirus at 8 and 12 weeks; MenB at 8, 16 weeks and 1 year; PCV at 12 weeks and 1 year; Hib/MenC and MMR at 1 year; 4-in-1 pre-school booster and MMR second dose at 3 years 4 months; annual influenza (LAIV) from age 2; HPV at 12–13 years (Year 8); and Td/IPV + MenACWY at 14 years (Year 9).

Question 2

Is egg allergy a contraindication to the MMR vaccine?

Accepted Answer

No. Egg allergy is NOT a contraindication to MMR vaccination. MMR is grown on chick embryo fibroblasts, but the ovalbumin content is negligible. MMR can be given routinely in primary care even in children with a history of anaphylaxis to egg. Observe for 15 minutes post-vaccination as a precaution. Inactivated influenza vaccine is also safe for most egg-allergic individuals; severe egg anaphylaxis should be managed in an allergy centre.

Question 3

What travel vaccines are essential before visiting sub-Saharan Africa?

Accepted Answer

For sub-Saharan Africa, essential travel vaccines include: Yellow Fever (certificate required for many countries — Stamaril, single dose, valid for life); Meningococcal ACWY (mandatory for Hajj and recommended for the Meningitis Belt); and Hepatitis A (recommended for all low/middle-income travel). Malaria prophylaxis is essential — atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone) or doxycycline are first-line; chloroquine resistance is universal. All travellers should also use DEET-based repellent, insecticide-treated bed nets, and long-sleeved clothing.

Question 4

What vaccines are recommended for asplenic patients?

Accepted Answer

Asplenic or hyposplenic patients require: PCV13 (if not previously given), then PPV23 at least 8 weeks later; MenACWY single dose if not given in adolescence; Hib/MenC booster if routine schedule incomplete; and annual influenza vaccination lifelong. PPV23 should be re-vaccinated every 5 years. Equally important: lifelong daily penicillin V prophylaxis (or erythromycin if penicillin-allergic) and patient education that fever equals emergency — seek immediate antibiotics.

Vaccinations

Routine Schedules

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