Parents and carers are being urged to check their children are up to date with vaccinations as they prepare for the new school year starting in September.
Childhood vaccinations help protect children, their friends, families and the wider community from many serious and potentially deadly diseases.
A Sandwell Council campaign – including a video featuring school pupils as different ‘superhero’ characters – has the message that ‘strong shields start with childhood vaccinations’.
Dr Frances Howie, Sandwell Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “As part of their preparations for the new school year, I would urge parents and carers to check their child’s Red Book to see if they’re up to date with vaccinations, which are free and safe.
“Please contact your GP practice if you’re unsure and book any missed vaccinations.
“Every superhero needs their protective shield. Together, we can help keep Sandwell's superheroes safe and protected, and help protect friends, relatives and the wider community.”
Councillor Ritchie Massey, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Health and Wellbeing, said: “It’s never too late to catch up on vaccinations so I would ask all parents and carers to check their children are up to date.
“I would also like to thank the fantastic pupils from St Martin’s CofE Primary School in Tipton for supporting our campaign and starring in our superheroes video, helping to get across an important message to help protect other children, their loved ones and our wider community.”
Go to our Healthy Sandwell website for more information.
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases.
- They help to protect you and your child from many serious and potentially deadly diseases.
- They protect other people in your family and community. This includes people who are too young or too ill to be vaccinated.
- They undergo rigorous safety testing before they are introduced. They’re also constantly monitored for side effects afterwards.
- They sometimes cause mild side effects that will not last long. You may feel a bit unwell and have a sore arm for 2 or 3 days.
- They reduce or even get rid of some diseases, if enough people are vaccinated.