Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent illness. They not only protect the person receiving the vaccine but also help reduce the spread of infections within the community, protecting those who are most vulnerable.
Why are vaccinations important?
Vaccinations help your immune system recognise and fight harmful viruses and bacteria before they can cause serious illness. Thanks to immunisation programmes, many diseases that were once common are now rare in the UK.
Vaccination helps to protect against illnesses such as:
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
- Whooping cough (pertussis).
- Influenza (flu).
- COVID-19 (for eligible groups).
- Pneumococcal disease.
- Meningitis.
- Shingles.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (for eligible groups).
Who should have vaccinations?
Vaccinations are recommended throughout life, including:
- Babies and young children as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule.
- Teenagers receiving school-age vaccinations.
- Pregnant women to help protect themselves and their baby.
- Adults eligible for seasonal vaccinations such as flu and COVID-19.
- Older adults offered vaccines such as shingles, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines.
- People with certain long-term health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Your eligibility depends on your age, medical history and individual circumstances.
Are vaccines safe?
Yes. All vaccines used in the UK undergo rigorous testing before they are approved and continue to be closely monitored for safety and effectiveness.
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as:
- A sore arm where the injection was given.
- A mild fever.
- Feeling tired or generally unwell for a day or two.
Serious side effects are very rare, and the benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks.
Have you missed a vaccination?
It's never too late to catch up on many routine vaccinations.
If you or your child have missed one or more vaccines, please contact the practice. We can check your vaccination record and arrange any vaccines that are needed to help ensure you are fully protected.
Check you're up to date
If you're unsure whether you or your child are up to date with vaccinations, our team can help. We can review your immunisation history and advise which vaccines you may be eligible for.
How to book
If you have received an invitation for a vaccination or think you may be eligible for one, please contact the practice to book an appointment.
Together, we can help protect individuals, families and our community from preventable diseases through vaccination.