Under fives swine flu vaccination programme to be delivered by GPs

21/12/2009

NHS Gloucestershire has reached an agreement with local GPs to deliver the swine flu vaccination to children between six months and under five years of age at GP surgeries.

GP surgeries across the county have been delivering the vaccine to those patients in the initial priority groups since the beginning of November. They will continue to vaccinate those in the first priority groups but will now look to call this second priority group.

Health and Social Care workers have also been receiving their vaccinations with more than 5,000 already taking up the opportunity.

Dr Shona Arora, Director of Public Health at NHS Gloucestershire, has been leading the coordination of the response to swine flu since April. She said:

“I am delighted that local GPs have agreed to undertake this important vaccination. Since the pandemic began GPs and health care workers have worked tirelessly to ensure local people are treated and protected. We appreciate the support they have given.

“We have already seen some hospitalisations in the county, including children, as a result of swine flu. This is why the swine flu vaccination is important. It can help protect those who are most vulnerable and at risk of developing serious complications from the virus.

“Swine flu can affect people of all ages. I would therefore encourage everyone who is invited to take the opportunity to be vaccinated and protect themselves from this virus.”

Dr Phil Fielding, local GP and vice chair of the Local Medical Committee, said:

“Local GPs are working hard to support the campaign and have been in regular discussions with NHS Gloucestershire. We welcome this agreement and will now begin to look at how we can implement vaccinations for this age group.”