What are the specific contraindications for childhood vaccinations that I should be aware of?

Specific contraindications for childhood vaccinations include:

• Significant immunosuppression before administering live attenuated vaccines, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.
• A history of anaphylaxis to a previous dose of the vaccine or to any component of the vaccine, which is an absolute contraindication.
• Bleeding disorders may require modification of the route of administration (e.g., subcutaneous instead of intramuscular) rather than a contraindication, but caution is needed to reduce bleeding risk.
• Vaccines should not be administered into the gluteal muscle due to poor immunological response and risk of nerve damage, though this is a procedural contraindication rather than a medical contraindication.

Other than these, most mild illnesses or minor infections are not contraindications to vaccination. It is important to ensure the child is observed after vaccination for any immediate adverse reactions such as anaphylaxis, which is rare but can occur within minutes.

Consent must be obtained from a fully informed person with parental responsibility before vaccination.

For detailed and specific contraindications, always consult the latest edition of the Public Health England's Immunisation against infectious disease (The Green Book).

References: ¹