Immunisation

Routine child and adolescent immunisation programme

This is the most important information on immunisation the public should know but leave off the third column.

Most immunisations are given at your GP surgery you can arrange an appointment with your practice nurse.

The most comprehensive, up-to-date and accurate source of information on vaccines, disease and immunisation in the UK is available at http://www.nhs.uk/Planners/vaccinations/Pages/aboutvaccinationhub.aspx

Get the Jab. Get flu safe

Flu is a highly contagious infection that anyone can catch, and it can be a really serious illness for some.

As winter sets in, it’s time for those at greatest risk from flu to protect themselves and their families, and get ‘flu safe’ with a free flu jab. The NHS Flu Safe campaign aims to highlight the importance of getting the jab.

Those at greater risk from flu include people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, and those with health conditions such as severe asthma, chest or heart complaints and diabetes. They are encouraged to get a free flu jab from their GP or participating pharmacist.

Please note that Community Pharmacies can vaccinate all patients in the current at risk groups EXCEPT:

• Children under 16
• Pregnant women
• Patients who are immuno-compromised or immuno-suppressed.

Patients in these groups should speak to their GPs. Pregnant women can also speak with their midwife who  can give the jab in antenatal clinics.

For more information, speak to your GP or local pharmacist, or visit www.nhs.uk/flu.

A list of community pharmacies in Hertfordshire providing the NHS Seasonal Flu Vaccination Service is available here.

NHS Hertfordshire is encouraging everyone across the county who knows anyone who may be at risk from flu to tell them how important it is that they get protected. People who are carers and frontline health and social care staff are also encouraged to get a free jab to protect themselves and those around them.

Find out more about flu and the vaccine at NHS Choices.