Vaccinations
Vaccines are the most effective way to protect you, your family and those around you from many serious infectious diseases.
It's important that vaccines are given on time for the best protection, but if you or your child missed a vaccine, contact your GP to catch up.
Check the UK vaccine schedule here
Find our Youtube Vaccination Playlist here
What are vaccinations?
Vaccines protect other people in your family and community by helping to stop diseases spreading to people who cannot have vaccines, such as babies too young to be vaccinated and those who are at increased risk of infections because of age, medical conditions, or having a weaker immune system.
All vaccines have to complete demanding safety testing before being used on the public. They're also constantly monitored for side effects after being introduced.
Like all medication, vaccines can 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.
If enough people get vaccinated (usually over 95% of the population) some diseases can be reduced or even eliminated.
In the UK, the recommended vaccine schedule can be found on the NHS website.
You can register with a GP for free. Being registered with a local GP will make getting vaccines easier as they will send you a reminder. Find out more about registering with a GP here.
If you or your child(ren) have received a vaccination abroad, please make sure to tell your GP so they can keep your health record up to date and check if you need any additional vaccines. In some cases, you or your child may need additional vaccines to match the UK vaccine schedule.
If you’re newly arrived in the UK and don’t know your own, or your family’s, history of vaccination, your doctor will assume you aren’t immunised and will help you receive all the immunisations needed.