Parents and carers have a lot to think about ahead of a new school term but it’s important that checking their child’s vaccinations are up to date is on the list of things to do.
Vaccinations offer the best protection from infections diseases. Not being protected puts children at risk of being seriously unwell and sometimes results in children needing to go to hospital.
Children starting school in September, should have had their second dose of the MMR vaccination to protect them against measles, mumps and rubella. This is especially important as there have been a number of confirmed cases of measles across Greater Manchester.
Children should also have had their 4 in 1 pre – school booster which is usually given at 3 years and 4 months. The booster tops up protection against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and pertussis (which is more commonly known as whooping cough). Cases of whooping cough are also on the rise so its more important than ever to check children are up to date with their vaccinations.
If parents and carers are not sure about which vaccinations their children have had they can check in their red book or they can contact their GP practice. The practice can also arrange an appointment to get children vaccinated. Its never too late to get your child vaccinated, even if your child is not just starting school in September, they can still catch up and get protected.
All vaccinations offered by the NHS, have been given to millions of children worldwide and have an excellent safety record.
More information on free NHS childhood vaccinations and when to have them, can be found on the NHS website. You’ll also be able to read about the free flu vaccine which your child can have in the autumn term.
