Which vaccines do we provide to newborn babies?
Vaccination UK provides access to selected newborn vaccines recommended in the UK for babies who meet certain criteria. These vaccines help protect newborns during the earliest and most vulnerable stage of life.
The two main vaccines offered to newborn babies are the BCG vaccine and the Hepatitis B vaccine. Both are well-established vaccines used in the UK and worldwide to protect against serious infectious diseases.
The BCG vaccine helps protect against tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs but can also cause serious illness elsewhere in the body. TB can be particularly severe in babies and young children.
Some newborns are offered the BCG vaccine because they may be at higher risk of exposure to TB. This can include babies born into families with links to countries where TB is more common, or where there is a family history of TB.
The BCG vaccine is usually given soon after birth, often within the first few weeks of life, as a single dose.
Read more about the BCG vaccine for babies
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can be passed from mother to baby at birth and, if left untreated, may lead to long-term liver problems later in life.
Newborn babies at higher risk of exposure to Hepatitis B are offered vaccination shortly after birth. The Hepatitis B vaccine is given as a course of doses, starting at birth, to provide ongoing protection as the baby grows.
Completing the full vaccination course is important to ensure the best possible level of protection.
Read more about the Hepatitis B vaccine for babies
In the UK, all newborn babies are offered vaccinations shortly after birth to help protect them against serious infections. It is particularly important if your child is considered at higher risk due to family background, medical history, or maternal health factors.
Eligibility is typically identified during pregnancy or shortly after birth by healthcare professionals. Vaccination UK can support families who have been advised that their baby should receive the BCG or Hepatitis B vaccine.
Vaccinating your baby helps protect them from serious and potentially life-threatening infections at a time when their immune system is still developing.
Newborn vaccines not only protect your baby but also help reduce the spread of infection within families and the wider community. Early vaccination provides protection during the months when babies are most vulnerable.
In the UK, all babies are offered their routine primary vaccinations around 8 weeks of age, as part of the national childhood immunisation schedule. In addition to these, some newborn babies may also be offered the BCG vaccine to protect against tuberculosis, and extra Hepatitis B vaccines may be recommended for babies in selected higher-risk groups.
Yes. Newborn vaccines used in the UK have been thoroughly tested and are routinely given to babies worldwide. They are recommended because the benefits of protection far outweigh the risks.
If your baby has a mild illness, vaccination can often still go ahead. If your baby is more seriously unwell or has a fever, the appointment may be postponed. Our clinicians will always assess your baby and advise you on the best course of action.
Are newborn vaccines safe?
Yes. Newborn vaccines used in the UK have been thoroughly tested and are routinely given worldwide. They are recommended because the benefits of protection far outweigh the risks.
Are babies too young to be vaccinated?
No. Some vaccines are recommended shortly after birth because babies are at the highest risk of severe illness during early life.
Do vaccines overload a newborn’s immune system?
No. A baby’s immune system safely handles many new germs every day. The number of antigens in vaccines is very small by comparison.
If no one in my family is ill, does my baby still need vaccines?
Yes. Some infections can be passed unknowingly, and exposure can happen through visitors, travel, or the wider community.
Part of the NHS School Aged Immunisation Service
School Vaccines
Catch-up Clinics
Newborn Services
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