Vaccinations are one of the most important measures to protect children against serious diseases. Through the National Immunization Programme, children in Sweden receive free protection against several infectious diseases that were previously both common and life-threatening. Here we list all the vaccinations included in the program, why they are important and when they are given.

Rotavaccination

Protects against: Rotavirus, which causes severe stomach sickness and dehydration, especially in young children.

• Dose 1: Given when the baby is 6-8 weeks old.
• Dose 2: Given at 3 months of age.
• Dose 3: given at 5 months of age.

The vaccine is given as drops in the mouth and effectively protects against one of the most common causes of stomach flu in babies.

Vaccination against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae and pneumococcus

Protects against: Seven serious diseases caused by bacteria or viruses. They are spread by airborne, droplet or contact infection and can lead to complications such as meningitis, pneumonia or paralysis. Thanks to vaccinations, these diseases are rare in Sweden.

• Dose 1: Given at 3 months of age.
• Dose 2: given at 5 months of age.
• Dose 3: given at 12 months of age.

The vaccination is given as two injections - one in each thigh - on each occasion.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination

Protects against: Three viral infections that can cause serious complications such as encephalitis, infertility and birth defects.

• Dose 1: given at 18 months of age.

The vaccination is given as a shot in the thigh. If you are planning to travel abroad, earlier vaccination may be considered - talk to your BVC nurse for advice.

Polio, diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough booster

Protects against: Four diseases that can cause anything from paralysis and breathing problems to prolonged coughing.

• Dose 1: Given at 5 years of age.

This booster dose is given as a shot in the arm and strengthens the protection built up during infancy.

Other vaccinations that can be taken outside the general childhood vaccination schedule:

• Chickenpox vaccine - can be given from 9 months of age.
• TBE vaccine - can be given from 1 year of age.

You will have to pay for these vaccinations yourself and take them at a vaccination clinic.

Before the trip:

Before traveling abroad, it may be useful to talk to a vaccination clinic to see if you need to take any additional vaccines other than the ones your child has already received through the vaccination program.

If you are a parent from a country with a high risk of TB (tuberculosis) or have lived in an environment where TB is present for a long period of time, your child can be vaccinated against it via the BVC. Your BVC nurse will inform you if this is the case, but ask if you have any questions!

You can always talk to your BVC nurse if you have questions or concerns about the vaccinations.