Model Marriage
When recommended
The first dose between 12 and 15 months and the second between 4 and 6 years.Potential side effects
Most common are a rash and slight fever, less common side effects are swelling around the neck
and joints and pain in the arms and legs.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough
What it does
This immunization protects against:
(a) Diphtheria: which causes fever, difficulty in breathing, and possibly even death.
(b) Tetanus: also known as lockjaw, which attacks the central nervous system.
(c) Whooping cough: which can cause pneumonia, severe coughing and brain damage.When recommended
The first three doses are given at 2, 4, and 6 months, the fourth between 15 and 18 months, and the
fifth between 4 and 6 years.
Potential side effects
In the past, there were reactions of fever and soreness, and less frequently, vomiting. In some rare
cases, the child experiences a high fever or seizure. Today’s vaccine leads to minimized reactions.
Hepatitis B (HEP B)
What it does
This immunization protects the child against Hepatitis B, which is a viral illness spread by blood
or through sexual contact. It can cause liver damage in the form of cirrhosis and cancer.
When recommended
One shot between birth and 2 months, a second between 1 month and 4 months, and a third and
final shot between 6 and 18 months
Potential side effects
A very small number (1 to 3 per cent) of children experience injection site swelling and fever. One
in 600,000 will have a reaction that results in drop in blood pressure and breathing difficulties.^1