15 month immunisations

At 15 months, immunisations for MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) Hib (haemophilus influenza type b vaccine) and pneumococcal disease are given. These immunisations are free to all children and help protect your child against these diseases. Read more about diseases we immunise against.

In New Zealand, most people choose to immunise their children. However, outbreaks of diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella and whooping cough still occur because not enough people are fully immunised.

Having an appointment early in the day so they are not tired, planning a calm day, taking a favourite toy, talking calmly and distracting them at the time of the injection may help your child cope. The injections can make some children unsettled. Your doctor may recommend giving liquid paracetamol for this. Check the right dose for your child’s age and weight with your health professional. A relaxing bath can also help if your child is unsettled.

Some children may get a rash or fever about 6–7 days after the measles injection and it can last for several days. If your child has a fever, see caring for a child with a high temperature.

If you are concerned about your child, contact a doctor. For further information on immunisation check your Well Child Tamariki Ora health book or phone 0800 IMMUNE/0800 466 863.