Child Vaccinations

Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. Use this link to find out how vaccines work, what they contain and the most common side effects.

NHS Vaccination Information Page

Men B Outbreak March 2026

There is currently an ongoing outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease – a form of meningitis – in Kent. Meningitis is a serious condition where the protective layers (meninges) around the brain and spinal cord become inflamed.

It has many causes, such as different germs, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In the UK, most cases are due to bacteria or viruses. Some of the bacteria that cause meningitis can also lead to septicaemia (blood poisoning), and both conditions can result in sepsis, which is life-threatening.

Although anyone can get meningitis, it’s most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. It needs to be treated quickly so it is important to know the signs and symptoms which can happen in any order and may not all be present.

Click on the link below for more information

UK Health Security Agency- Men B

Measles Outbreak March 2026

You may have seen that measles has been in the news again, following outbreaks in parts of the country. Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases and spreads rapidly among people who are unvaccinated. It is an unpleasant illness and can sometimes cause very serious complications.

We are urging parents and carers to check their child’s vaccination status and ensure they are fully protected against measles by having the MMR or MMRV vaccine.

Despite the availability of a safe and highly effective vaccine, measles remains a significant global health risk. In 2023, an estimated 107,500 measles-related deaths occurred worldwide, mostly among unvaccinated or under‑vaccinated children under the age of five.

Measles spreads very easily, particularly among children who have not had the MMR or MMRV vaccine:

Nine out of ten unvaccinated children can catch measles from an infected classmate
One in five children who catch measles will require a hospital visit
One in fifteen will experience serious complications, such as meningitis or sepsis
Children who are not fully vaccinated and who come into contact with measles may be excluded from school or nursery for up to 21 days under public health guidance, meaning they could miss school if they are not protected

We strongly advise you to:

Check you and your child’s vaccination record
Make sure your child has had two doses of MMR or MMRV
Contact your GP surgery as soon as possible if you or your child is not fully vaccinated

Did you know? Parents not wishing their child to have the porcine gelatine-containing MMR/MMRV vaccine can ask their GP practice for an alternative option.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from measles and to help prevent disruption to your home life, work and to your child’s education. If you need further information or support, your GP practice will be happy to assist.

Click on the link below for more information from NHS about measles

NHS Measles