Extra Bradford clinics held to help with vaccinations (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Extra Bradford clinics held to help with vaccinations

7:07pm Friday 27th November 2009

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Extra clinics are being held throughout Bradford and Airedale to make sure the most vulnerable people get the best possible protection against swine flu this winter.

GPs are now contacting people in ‘at risk’ groups who are eligible for the jab, inviting them to make an appointment, including pregnant women and people with conditions such as asthma, heart disease and diabetes and people whose immune systems aren’t working properly.

A second vaccination phase was announced last week for children aged six months to under fives, however, the ‘at risk’ groups will remain the priority.

Dr Anita Sims, public health director for Bradford and Airedale, said: “The swine flu vaccination is being offered first to people who are most likely to develop complications if they catch swine flu.

“I would strongly urge anyone who is eligible for a swine flu jab to get the best possible protection for themselves and their families this winter by taking up the offer from their GP.”

Dr Daniel Caris, of Bowling Hall medical practice, said: “Swine flu is different to seasonal flu as it’s a new virus, and very few of us have any resistance to it.

“Although the virus has so far proved to be mild in most people, for others it has been more serious. By vaccinating ‘at risk’ groups first, we aim to protect those most vulnerable to this virus.

“People can have their swine flu vaccine at the same time as the seasonal flu jab – and you’ll need both to be fully protected this winter.”

A spokesman for NHS Bradford and Airedale said: “Negotiations are still taking place between the Department of Health, the British Medical Association and NHS organisations to agree exactly how the second phase of the programme will be delivered.

“Once negotiations are complete, GPs will be able to start vaccinating children who will require the first swine flu vaccination followed by a booster. However, those in the ‘at risk’ groups in the first phase will remain a priority.

“GP practices will be contacting parents and carers of children in the new group as soon as guidance has been finalised and the programme starts.

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