New vaccine catch-up clinic dates

The clinics run by Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust’s (KCHFT) School-aged Immunisation Service are part of continuing efforts by local health leaders to drive up vaccine rates, particularly for MMR because of the national rise in measles.

With cases confirmed in every region of England, including the South East, concerns remain the highly infectious disease will keep on spreading unless more people are protected.

Measles causes fever and rash and can lead to serious illness such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness and seizures.

In rare cases it can be fatal – but it is 99% preventable through two doses of the MMR vaccine.

Children are routinely offered the first dose of MMR at one year and the second dose at three years and four months for life-long protection.

If you are unsure if your child is up to date with their MMR vaccines, you can check their Red Book health record; and if you are still not sure, you can contact your GP practice, who can also offer MMR catch-up appointments.

To arrange an appointment at any of the KCHFT community clinics, Kent and Medway parents and carers should contact the School-aged Immunisation Service by:

• phone: 0300 123 5205
• email: kchft.cyp-immunisationteam@nhs.net
• book using the service’s webchat.

The latest dates are listed below and also published on the KCHFT website.

Summer holiday all booked? Follow UK Health Security Agency advice. Ensure you and your family are up to date with all routine NHS vaccinations before travelling overseas – as well as having any necessary additional vaccines for the countries and regions you are visiting.

For more information and advice:

• read why Kent and Medway’s health leaders want you to get protected against measles.
• visit the Kent and Medway Integrated Care System vaccination webpage Get Vaccinated Now.