Many potentially fatal childhood diseases have been virtually eradicated in the UK due to the availability of vaccination. It is nonetheless very important that babies and children are fully immunised. Reminders are sent out by the practice.
HIB (Haemophilus influenzae type B) can cause:
- a type of meningitis
- a severe form of croup (epiglottitis)
- blood poisoning (septicaemia)
- joint and bone infections
- pneumonia
Each year about 1,300 children in the UK are infected by HIB and over half of these children develop HIB meningitis. HIB immunisation is now offered to all babies and children up to four years old. We strongly recommend that all children under four receive this immunisation.
NHS vaccinations and when to have them information here.
Tetanus Infection
Tetanus infection may be picked up from wounds occurring in the garden or street. We recommend that everyone has a booster every 10 years.