Which immunisation is given to a child at 6 weeks?

At 6 weeks of age, the recommended immunization for a child is the Rotavirus 1 oral vaccine. This vaccine is part of the National Immunisation Schedule in New Zealand and helps protect infants against rotavirus, which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. Administering this vaccine early in life is crucial because rotavirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis in young children, and they are particularly vulnerable during this stage. The oral vaccine is given as a liquid and is typically the first dose in a series that continues as the child grows.

In contrast, the other vaccines listed are administered at different ages. The measles vaccine is usually given at 12 months, the influenza vaccine is generally offered annually starting at 6 months of age, and the HPV vaccine is typically not provided until the age of 12 or 13 years. Thus, the timing of the Rotavirus vaccine at 6 weeks aligns with current immunization schedules aimed at enhancing early infant health and development.