The school immunisation team is sharing a ‘prevention is better than cure’ message as they remind parents and carers of the need for children and young people to get their routine vaccinations.

They are sharing this message as the number of young people vaccinated against potentially life-threatening diseases is dropping below previous years.

The team, part of Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, is reminding local communities that they are still here to help, delivering life-saving vaccinations in schools across Bradford, Airedale and Wharfedale.

They are encouraging all families to check their children are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and to help local people ensure their families are protected, they are sharing information on which vaccinations are available and when:

• The HPV vaccination which helps protect against cancers caused by the Human Papillomavirus, is routinely offered to all pupils in Year 8.
• DTP and MenACWY which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, meningitis and septicaemia, is a continuation from each child’s baby immunisations and is offered to all pupils in Year 9.
• MMR vaccination which protects against Measle, Mumps, Rubella is offered at any time to those who may have missed a dose.
• BCG (Bacille Calmette Guerin) protects against tuberculosis, also known as TB, and is offered to thosewhose parent or grandparent comes from a high-risk country. Those who have missed it at birth can be referred into the service by a healthcare professional.

Yvonne Osborn, lead immunisation nurse at the Care Trust said: “It is a real concern that we are seeing a drop in uptake for routine vaccinations. The diseases they protect against can cause serious illness and getting protection against them is really quick and simple.

“We understand families have had more to think about over the last few years and that some children and young people may be nervous about getting injections, but we really want to encourage everyone to check and come forward if their child’s vaccinations are not up-to-date. This will help us continue keeping our communities safe.”

Parents and carers can find out more information on the Immunisations webpage of the Better Lives, Healthy Futures website www.betterliveshealthyfuturesbw.nhs.uk, including what to do if you are concerned that your child’s immunisations have been missed.

Alternatively, contact the school immunisations team on 01274 221269 and a member of the team will be in touch. If your child attends a special educational needs school, you can contact the special needs school nursing team on 01274 221203 for more support.