Vaccination is one of the best ways we can protect ourselves from serious illnesses. Although the benefits seem invisible they are vital to support good health across all members of the population
Although vaccinations may have some side effects they are some of the safest medications available with most people experiencing minimal or no side effects. A few people cant have vaccinations due to medical issues however, if the rest of the population is vaccinated we will protect those at most risk.
When you're considering a vaccination for yourself or your child, it's natural to focus on the potential side effects. But a better approach is to try to balance the benefits of having a vaccine against the chances of harm. Further information about the NHS vaccinations and when to have them - NHS (www.nhs.uk) can be found on the NHS website.
Further information regarding routine vaccination can be found here
A checklist of the vaccines that are routinely offered to everyone in the UK free of charge on the NHS, and the ages at which they should ideally be given, can be found on the NHS website.
The list includes vaccines for special groups and travel vaccines available free on the NHS.
Immunisations for pre-school children start 8 weeks after birth and include:
There are also optional vaccines aimed at children who have, or whose siblings have, supressed immune systems or are otherwise at greater risk of coming into contact with certain diseases. These include vaccines for Chickenpox, Tuberculosis, Flu and Hepatitis B.
For further information about NHS vaccinations and when to have them visit the NHS Website.
There are a number of immunisations administered to children of school age, these are also very important as they 'top up' your child's immune system. Further information is available from the NHS and will be sent by your child's school when they are due these vaccines.
For further information about these vaccinations, visit A guide to immunisation for young people - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Most adults between the ages of 18 and 65 do not normally need vaccines unless they are at greater risk of contracting a specific disease. This may be due to:
Vaccinations for those aged 65+
The vaccines available for over 65s include Pneumococcal PPV vaccine, the shingles vaccine and the annual COVID and influenza boosters. You should be advised by your GP when you are eligible for these.
Flu Vaccines
To find out if you are eligible for the winter flu vaccine please visit www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.
In conclusion the benefits of having yourself and your children vaccinated can help protect them against some serious illnesses. It will also help to protect some of the most vulnerable in our society.
If you have questions or concerns before a vaccination, speak to your GP or health professional.
