Only 24 hours left for swine flu vaccination

THERE are just 24 hours left for parents to protect their youngsters against swine flu.

Mums and dads are being urged to act now and get their child the vital vaccine.

Health bosses have seen a large boost in the number of children vaccinated against the virus since the Daily Echo launched the campaign Do It For Andrew but with the deadline fast approaching they are warning families not to miss out.

After tomorrow the vaccine will no longer be available to healthy children aged six months to five years, due to the low-level threat it poses during the warmer months.

Already GPs have seen nearly 32 per cent of children take advantage of the free vaccine in Hampshire since it was introduced last year and they are expecting to see these figures soar thanks to the campaign.

Dr Graham Watkinson, public health consultant for NHS Southampton City, said: “Both NHS Southampton City and our GP colleagues have been contacted by parents and guardians in Southampton about getting the vaccine for children, and the Daily Echo’s campaign has been positive in helping to protect people in our community.”

The Daily Echo launched the campaign in memory of toddler Andrew McCall, from Lower Duncan Road, Park Gate, who died in his cot on Christmas morning when he was just 23 months old.

His parents Sarah-Jane and Iain have backed the campaign and are urging all parents not to risk the same happening to them by ensuring their child is immunised and protected.

Since their emotional plea, parents have been flocking to GP surgeries to find out more about the vaccine, which can prevent another tragedy like Andrew’s death.

Although the imminent danger of catching the virus is low, doctors are warning that this does not mean we have seen the last of the flu.

It is expected to make a return in the autumn, so parents are being urged to be prepared and stop the risk to their child by getting the jab today.

Dr Ian Maclennan, public health consultant for NHS Hampshire, said: “People have identified with Andrew’s story and I am sure it will have an impact on those seeking to vaccinate their children.

“It will be back in the autumn so now is the time for parents to prepare and take action now. What Andrew’s parents have done, during this tragic time, is wonderful and we are expecting their message to have spurred more parents to vaccinate.”