COVID-19 vaccination appointments are now being issued for eligible infants and young children in Lanarkshire.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised that infants and children aged six months to four years who have a condition that puts them at higher risk of serious illness be offered the vaccine.
NHS Lanarkshire is now sending appointment letters to the parents/carers of those children who have been identified as being eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine because their health records show they have one of the eligible conditions.
The vaccine will help to reduce the child’s risk of getting seriously ill or having to go to hospital with Covid. They will be offered two doses of the vaccine, at least eight weeks apart.
Susan Frew, NHS Lanarkshire’s vaccination programme service manager, said: “Infants and young children with underlying health conditions are seven times more likely to be admitted to a paediatric intensive care unit with severe coronavirus, compared to those without underlying health conditions.
“Getting the vaccine will help to protect your child against coronavirus. The vaccine helps to build up immunity to coronavirus, so the body can fight it off more easily. If your child is vaccinated, they are much less likely to get seriously ill from coronavirus or need to go to hospital.
“We are sending out appointments for those infants and children who are eligible but if the appointment is not suitable it can be rearranged by calling 01698 687456. If anyone does not want their child to be vaccinated at this time can also call this number to cancel the appointment.
“You can also call 01698 687456 If a child is unable to leave home due to their mobility, physical ability or mental health condition or if they need additional support at their appointment to discuss their requirements.”
Lanarkshire MSP Neil Gray welcomed the move to extend the immunisation programme to under-fives, saying it would ensure medically vulnerable youngsters are protected, as well as helping to cut nationwide transmission rates of the virus.
The Airdrie & Shotts representative called it “a huge boost in the continuing fight against coronavirus“ and said: “When a young child is sick, they just want to cuddle up to someone to feel safe and that can be a easy way for the virus to transmit from one to another.
“I hope that parents and guardians will take up the vaccine offer and ensure that their children have the same level of protection that they themselves will have had.”
For further information on eligibility visit here or call the National Vaccination Helpline on 0800 030 8013 for general information about the vaccination.
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