A series of catch-up clinics have been announced for school-aged children in the new city who have not yet been vaccinated against flu this winter. The clinics will operate on a walk-in basis.
Once you get vaccinated, it usually takes two weeks for your body to build up protection against the flu virus. With the festive season just around the corner, get your flu vaccine now to make sure you and your loved ones are protected in time.
Achieving high vaccination coverage across the population is important as it also indirectly helps protect people in the community who are unable to be vaccinated for reasons of health or age, including very young children.
“Flu can make children seriously unwell, and vaccination is the best way to protect them from a nasty illness this winter," said Dr Sanhita Chakrabarti, deputy chief medical director and clinical lead for children’s and maternity services at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, “I urge all parents to bring their children forward. The vaccine – which is typically given to children as a quick, painless spray up the nose – is safe, effective and proven to help prevent hospitalisations from flu.
“The NHS offers vaccinations for children and adults against a range of infections which can cause severe illness and hospitalisation, and can even be fatal in rare cases. The risk of complications is higher in babies, young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immunity.
“There are many reasons why your child might not be up to date with their vaccinations. Perhaps your child was absent on the day that vaccinations were delivered at their school, or you previously said no but have since changed your mind.
"Whatever the reason, you can get your child vaccinated at a location near you.”
The clinics will be held at the following locations:
Saturday 20 December, 10.00am to 2.00pm: Marsh Drive Sports Ground, Marsh Drive, Great Linford, MK14 5HH.
Saturday 20 December, 10.00am to 2.00pm: Giffard Park Community Centre, Broadway Avenue, Giffard Park, MK14 5GJ
