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, including for MMR because of the national rise in measles.
Under-10s who have never had the whooping cough vaccination can also be caught up a KCHFT community clinic.
Measles and whooping cough easily spread and in rare case can be fatal - but vaccination provides protection.
Children are routinely offered the first dose of MMR at one year and the second dose at three years and four months.
The whooping cough vaccine is routinely given as part of:
- the 6-in-1 vaccine – for babies at 8, 12 and 16 weeks
- the 4-in-1 pre-school booster – for children aged 3 years 4 months
If you are unsure if your child is up to date with their vaccines, you can check their Red Book health record; and if you are still not sure, contact your GP practice, who can also offer catch-up appointments.
Over-5s and teens can now drop-in to the community clinics but under-5s must have their appointments booked.
To arrange an appointment, Kent and Medway parents and carers of under-5s should contact the School-aged Immunisation Service by:
- phone: 0300 123 5205
- email: kchft.cyp-immunisationteam@nhs.net
Find the latest list of clinic dates 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: