A programme to vaccinate children against swine flu in Lichfield and Burntwood has begun.
The vaccinations – for youngsters over six months and under five years-old – is being orchestrated by South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) in partnership with local GPs.
Young children are being offered the vaccine to protect them from swine glu and its possible complications, particularly as they seem to be vulnerable to severe illness which could result in hospitalisation.
Letters are being distributed to parents of children in the relevant age group who are registered with GPs across the South Staffordshire PCT area, including Lichfield. The letters will be from either their GP inviting them to receive their vaccination at the GP Surgery or from the PCT who will invite them to have their vaccination at a Vaccination Centre, a number of which have been set up across South Staffordshire.
John Wicks, Flu Director for South Staffordshire PCT, said:
“Children over six months and under five years seem to be more vulnerable to severe illness as a result of swine flu and vaccination is the best way to protect them from possible complications.
“Even if your child is healthy, it is important to get them vaccinated as it will help protect them against swine flu, as well as protecting your family and other people who are close to your child as it is less likely they will pass on the virus. It will also protect your child against future waves of infection caused by the swine flu virus and reduce the spread of the disease.
“Parents with children over six months and under five years old should wait to receive their letter from either the GP or their PCT.”
People with chronic conditions, pregnant women and those who are immunosuppressed who have already received an invitation to make an appointment for their swine flu vaccination, but have not yet taken up the opportunity are being urged to do so as soon as possible to protect themselves.
For further information about the vaccination or for more information about symptoms visit www.nhs.uk or contact the Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 or the National Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100.
