Date last reviewed:
Thursday, Apr 18, 2024
On this page:
Public health nurses give vaccines to infants and young children at health units and community health centres. In First Nations communities, children get immunized by their community health nurse at their community health centre or nursing station. Some doctors and nurse practitioners also give vaccines.
Learn what to expect and how to prepare for your infant or young child's immunizations.
Before the visit
- Read about the vaccines your child is getting. Click on the vaccine name on the immunization schedule to find information on the vaccine and a link to the HealthLinkBC File (fact sheet). You will also be given the HealthLinkBC Files at the appointment.
- Find your child's immunization record. Children born in BC receive a Child Health Passport booklet that contains an immunization record. Bring this booklet to each appointment and keep it in a safe place.
- Read about ways to make the immunization experience more positive for you and your child.
During the visit
- The nurse or doctor will ask for your consent to immunize your child. You will need to have reviewed the HealthLinkBC Files on the vaccines your child is getting to give informed consent. Be sure to ask the nurse or doctor any questions you have.
- Support your child during the immunizations. Use these tips to make the immunization experience more positive for your child.
- The nurse or doctor will ask you to stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after immunization. This is important because after getting any vaccine, there is an extremely rare possibility of a serious life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The chance of this reaction occurring is about 1 in 1 million, and should it occur, your health care provider is prepared to treat it.
- Schedule your next visit. The nurse or doctor will tell you when to book the next appointment. Stay up to date with your child's immunizations for the best protection against disease.
After the visit
- Your child may have some side effects after immunization. For information on what to expect and how to manage side effects, view the immunization aftercare sheet for infants & young children. You can find vaccine-specific side effects in the HealthLinkBC Files.
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Report any serious and/or unexpected side effects after immunization to your immunization provider/clinic or health care provider.
