<p> Aims and intended learning outcomes </p> <p>The aim of this article is to review the current status of the childhood immunisation programme in England and Wales. Issues about the vaccines and the diseases they prevent will be discussed along with more general considerations.</p> <p>After reading this article you should be able to:</p> ■ <p>Name the vaccine preventable childhood diseases</p> ■ <p>Describe the schedule for childhood immunisation</p> ■ <p>Describe the contraindications to immunisation, both general and specific</p> ■ <p>Describe the common minor adverse reactions Understand the importance of organisation of immunisation provision.</p>