From a medical perspective vaccination, the process whereby someone is made immune to significant disease, has a long and distinguished track record and has proved highly beneficial. More recently public faith in some aspects of the process has diminished dramatically. This article by Marion Miles presents the background to, and development of, the immunisation programme currently recommended by the Department of Health. It seeks to explore reasons for non-compliance with the programme and to discuss the consequent dilemmas thus presented to professionals. Particular problems presented by looked after children are also considered.
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