Protecting your child through immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect against infectious diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 4-5 million childhood deaths are prevented through childhood vaccination every year as well as avoiding serious health complications. It is one of the most successful and cost-effective public health interventions.
Vaccination rates have decreased slightly in Northern Ireland over recent years. It is important that vaccination coverage is improved as soon as possible to help prevent the spread of serious and sometimes deadly diseases such as diphtheria, measles and polio.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) strongly recommends that babies and children are vaccinated according to the routine childhood immunisation schedule, and are urging parents to check their child/children’s red book to see if their vaccinations are up to date or speak to their health visitor or GP.
If your child has missed a vaccination, please contact your GP practice to book an appointment as soon as you can to make sure they are protected against serious infections.
For more information please see:
Also view Why the MMR Vaccine is important for you and your family at https://vimeo.com/797645270
