HEALTH chiefs are calling on people of all ages to check they are up to date with their vaccinations – and warning that falling uptake leaves communities vulnerable to preventable illnesses.
World Immunisation Week begins today and the NHS across Cheshire and Warrington and Merseyside says some 354,172 people are eligible for a top up dose to boost their protection against serious illness.
Cheshire and Merseyside has seen a decline in routine vaccination coverage in recent years, including childhood immunisations such as MMR, whooping cough and HPV, as well as adult vaccines like shingles and RSV.
Health leaders say World Immunisation Week is a timely reminder of the importance of staying protected through vaccination.
Dr Paula Cowan, local GP and Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said: “Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves, our families and our communities.
“World Immunisation Week gives us the opportunity to highlight just how important it is to keep vaccinations up to date. Even small drops in uptake can lead to outbreaks of diseases we should not be seeing.
“Whether you’re a parent checking your child’s Red Book or an adult who may have missed a vaccine earlier in life, now is the perfect time to get protected.”
Dr Fiona Lemmens, Executive Clinical Director, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, added: “With the Spring COVID 19 vaccination programme now underway, I would urge everyone who is eligible to come forward and take up their offer. Protection against COVID 19 reduces over time, so this spring vaccination is an important way to boost immunity and reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell or needing hospital treatment.”
The NHS is encouraging people to:
• Check their vaccination records or contact their GP practice if they are unsure what they or their children have received
• Book appointments for any missed or overdue vaccinations
• Take up invitations for routine vaccinations, including MMR, HPV, whooping cough, shingles, RSV and COVID 19
• Seek trusted information from NHS sources if they have questions about vaccine safety or eligibility
Parents and carers are being urged to pay particular attention to childhood vaccinations, with NHS teams offering catch up clinics and additional support for families who may have missed appointments.
Diseases such as measles, meningitis and whooping cough can spread quickly when vaccination rates fall. NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is working closely with local authorities, schools, community groups and health partners to increase awareness and make vaccinations as accessible as possible.
World Immunisation Week runs from 24–30 April and is observed globally to celebrate the lifesaving impact of vaccines and to promote collective action for immunisation.
