Health experts in Bradford are strongly advising that residents make and keep their children’s immunisation appointments as planned.

A new guide, available online, for parents and carers of young children is reinforcing the message that it is important to make sure children are up-to-date with their vaccinations.

Protecting children from a number of potentially serious illnesses means they are more likely to remain healthy and reduce pressures on NHS services.

GP practices are following social distancing guidance so it is safe to attend appointments.

Families may be asked to attend a different surgery for immunisations to your normal one.

The advice is part of a range of health advice for families during the coronavirus developed by Bradford Council’s public health department alongside NHS and other health partners. It is available on their website.

Sarah Muckle, Director of Public Health for Bradford Council, said: “It is more important than ever to ensure your children are protect from many the serious illnesses to ensure they stay healthy during lockdown.

“Making sure your children are up-to-date with their vaccination is the best thing you can do to make sure they are safe and well during this period.”

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Dr Kirsty King, GP and clinical lead for children and young people, NHS Bradford District and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “It’s so important to make sure that children continue to get their routine vaccinations; they are the most effective way to prevent infectious diseases such as measles and mumps. I’d like to reassure people that children can still get routine vaccinations as normal during the coronavirus pandemic.

“GP practices are very much still here to help. Although most appointments are happening over the phone or via video consultation, those that do need to come into the surgery for things like routine vaccinations, are able to do safely. Your GP practice will give you advice on what to do when you book your appointment. We just ask that you let us know if you or somebody in your household is self-isolating due to coronavirus.”

“Even if your child has missed a vaccination, I would urge you to call your GP practice as you will still be able to catch up.”