Catch-up vaccinations for Bedford under-fives

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Children whose vaccinations are not up to date can attend any one of a series of clinics which will take place over the coming months.

The clinics, aimed at the families of children under five years of age, will be held at a dozen regular venues across Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes.

Health bosses have selected the sites to make it easy for families to drop in, with no booking required for these clinics.

And the dates have been selected so that children can be protected before starting school or nursery in September.

Councillor Martin Towler, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, urged parents and carers to ensure their children received vaccinations.

He said; “Over recent years we’ve seen the number of children vaccinated against many of the infections fall below the level necessary to prevent an outbreak. As a parent and grandparent, that’s a huge worry to me.

“Achieving high vaccination coverage across the entire population is important for everyone, as it also helps to protect infants under one year old as well as other vulnerable groups who cannot be vaccinated.”

He added; “There are lots of reasons why your child may not be up to date on all of their vaccinations. We also know that families sometimes change their minds so, even if you previously chose not to have your child vaccinated, the opportunity is still there.

“There will also be opportunities for older children and teenagers to catch up on any missed vaccinations, and those dates will be published shortly.”

To get your child vaccinated, make an appointment at your GP surgery, or visit any of the venues listed below. Clinics in Bedford Borough take place as follows:

Queens Park Children’s Centre, Marlborough Road, Bedford

  • Monday 20 May, 9am-midday
  • Monday 17 June, 9am-midday
  • Monday 15 July, 9am-midday
  • Monday 19 August, 9am-midday.

Pine Cones Children’s Centre, Slade Walk, Bedford

  • Tuesday 21 May, 9am-midday
  • Tuesday 18 June, 9am-midday
  • Tuesday 16 July, 9am-midday
  • Tuesday 20 August, 9am-midday.

Church Lane Community Centre, Goldington, Bedford

  • Friday 21 June, 9am-midday
  • Friday 19 July, 9am-midday
  • Friday 23 August, 9am-3pm.