Calls for parents to get their children vaccinated

While thousands of children have already been vaccinated through the School Immunisation Programme, just over three quarters of 12–15-year-olds are yet to get their jab.

Now with the NHS National Booking Service open to those aged 12-15 and more vaccine centres are open to this age group, it’s never been easier for parents to book appointments for their children so they can get protected as they return to school after the half term break.

Vaccinating this age group is key to reducing infection rates and opening more vaccination centres will help speed up the rollout while keeping disruption to learning to a minimum.

Recent research shows that concerns around side effects can act as a barrier, and that convenience, such as being closer to a vaccination centre,  can encourage some parents to get their children vaccinated. 

Aston spoke to Dr Farzana Hussain.