Working with Wigan Council, nurses are visiting local supermarkets, takeaways and community venues to talk to people about the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
Nurses from Wigan’s Health First Community Interest Company (CIC) are visiting areas in Wigan with low MMR uptake. With measles cases rising, the team are talking to people about the benefits of having childhood vaccinations.
Wendy Fairhurst, Clinical Director of Wigan Health First CIC, said:
“We’re trying to improve the uptake of the MMR vaccine in Wigan by talking to people to try and turn around some of the misinformation that is out there.
“With nurses going into places such as supermarkets and fast food outlets, it means that people may feel more comfortable about having a conversation about their concerns”
Anyone aged five and over who hasn’t had their vaccination can walk into a participating pharmacy to get their jab. You don’t need an appointment and it’s quick and easy to catch up on any missed jabs and get protected.
Children who have not had their MMR vaccine can still get the jab up to the age of 10. The vaccine gives enough protection that if the child catches measles, the illness will be mild. You can find more information on the
NHS website .
If you see one of our NHS nurses when you’re out shopping, you can stop and ask any questions about vaccinations.
The rise in whooping cough cases in England is also causing concern. If you are pregnant, you should also have the whooping cough vaccine – ideally between 16 and 32 weeks. Children who have not been vaccinated can still get the jab up to the age of 10. Vaccination offers enough protection that if the child is infected, the illness will be mild. You can find more information on the NHS website or speak to your practice nurse.
