What steps should I take if a child presents with a missed vaccination in the childhood immunisation programme?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

When a child presents with a missed vaccination, the recommended step is to continue the course of immunisation without starting again, simply resuming and completing it as soon as possible .

If the child's immunisation history is unclear, assume they have not been vaccinated and plan a full course of immunisations, including three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, Hib, and hepatitis B vaccines spaced 4 weeks apart, two doses of MenB vaccine spaced 8 weeks apart (if applicable), one dose of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Hib/MenC, and MMR vaccines, with rotavirus vaccine not required at 1–2 years of age .

For children who have started but not completed primary courses, continue the vaccination schedule; there is no need to repeat doses .

In cases where the child's vaccination history cannot be clarified, it is recommended to give the full set of catch-up vaccines as outlined above .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.