KIDSVaccines protect children from serious infectious diseases
Is this true? Make your call, then see what the science says.
Short answer: Yes. The evidence supports this.
Australian health guidance is clear that routine childhood vaccines protect children from the most serious infections, some of which can threaten their lives. Trial and review evidence on HPV and RSV vaccines backs this up.
AI-generated summary of the research cited · not reviewed by a medical professional · checked 25 October 2026 · How we checkWhat the research found
Australian government and Victorian health guidance say the National Immunisation Program helps protect children from serious infections. These include whooping cough, measles, polio, meningococcal disease and rotavirus. The schedule is timed so children get protection as early as possible, and delays leave them unprotected for longer.
Trial and review evidence supports this for specific vaccines. A 2020 practice guideline said HPV vaccines have unequivocal data showing more than 99% efficacy in women not already exposed to the HPV type. A 10-year follow-up of a randomised trial in girls aged 10 to 14 found all 418 girls still had antibodies to HPV-16/18.
A phase 3 randomised trial in 2023 tested an RSV vaccine given in pregnancy to protect newborns from severe RSV illness. Australian guidance now recommends the maternal RSV vaccine at 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. A 2025 modelling study in the US warned that falling vaccination rates could risk the return of measles, rubella, polio and diphtheria.
What it doesn’t mean
- Vaccines can cause side effects, but serious side effects or allergic reactions are rare. Staying at the clinic for 15 minutes after a vaccine helps make sure there are no immediate reactions.
- Protection depends on the right vaccine at the right age. Some children need extra vaccines or catch-up doses. Talk to your GP or child health nurse about your child's needs or any missed vaccines.
Sources
General information only, not medical advice. KIDS fact-checks are generated by AI from published research and are not reviewed by doctors or other health professionals. They can be wrong or out of date. Always talk to your GP or child’s doctor about your child, and call 000 in an emergency. Spotted a problem? Tell us.
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