Vaccines have been one of the world’s greatest weapons against infectious diseases. Through widespread immunisation campaigns, we have successfully eradicated smallpox, made significant strides towards defeating polio, and significantly increased the survival and well-being of children worldwide. The field of immunisation research is undergoing a revolution, with exciting advancements promising an even healthier future. As […]
On the 12th March 2024 the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) published the National Flu Immunisation Programme 2024 to 2025 letter. We’re only just out of the winter months so is it time to think about the next flu season already? Absolutely….we can start to […]
Every year on the 24th March, we mark World TB Day to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and the ongoing efforts to combat this preventable and treatable disease. While often overshadowed by other health concerns, TB remains a significant global health threat, claiming millions of lives annually. This year’s theme for World TB Day; “Yes! […]
Vaccination is one of the most effective tools available in the fight against preventable diseases and is one of the most significant advancements in public health measures of our time, effectively preventing numerous infectious diseases and saving millions of lives. Yet, vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a significant challenge, undermining vaccination efforts and putting individuals […]
Measles is an extremely contagious viral disease than can lead to serious complications and in some cases death. It is especially dangerous in infants and children under five, pregnant women and those who are immunocompromised. Measles, once on the brink of eradication, has made a troubling comeback in recent years. Despite the availability of a reliable and […]
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has proposed the implementation of a universal chickenpox (varicella) vaccination programme within the routine childhood schedule in the UK. They have suggested using a two-dose schedule, using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) vaccine administered at 12 and 18 months of age. This recommendation stems […]
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. In the UK, proactive measures have been implemented to reduce the impact of cervical cancer through cervical screening programmes and the introduction of the national Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. This has been shown to be a true game-changer, significantly reducing the […]
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can affect people of all ages. It is particularly serious in infants and the elderly, leading to severe respiratory infections and is a major cause of hospitalisations in these age groups. In June 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended an immunisation programme […]
The 2023-24 flu vaccine programme is now well underway, having commenced in schools and for those most at risk alongside the Autumn 2023 COVID-19 booster programme in early September 2023. Flu vaccines play a crucial role in helping to safeguard individuals, communities and in protecting our National Health Service (NHS). Healthcare professionals can all help […]
As we approach the autumn of 2023, the NHS is gearing up for another round of COVID-19 vaccinations, but this time, there are some significant changes to the Covid-19 autumn vaccination programme that you should be aware of. In response to the evolving situation with new variants of the virus, the autumn vaccination programme has […]
