18,000 under-5s in Wirral to be vaccinated against swine flu

Jan 6 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

UNDER-5s in Wirral will be the next age group to receive the swine flu vaccine.

Babies and children aged six months to five years have been identified as the next priority group for the vaccine because they are more likely to be hospitalised if they fall ill with swine flu.

Parents will be contacted by NHS Wirral over the next few weeks to invite them to bring their children into clinics for vaccination.

Marie Armitage, Director for Public Health for NHS Wirral said: “Evidence shows that the under 5s are vulnerable and are being particularly hit by the swine flu virus.

“They are the largest group needing hospital treatment at the moment and children who are otherwise healthy, are often affected.

“It is important that parents have their children vaccinated and we ask for their understanding and patience as we co-ordinate the detailed arrangements to vaccinate around 18,000 children across Wirral over the next few weeks.”

Health officials say the best way to protect yourself and others from swine flu is to always carry tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or a sanitiser gel.