Public Health Scotland (PHS) have launched ‘Chat. Sign. Protect.’, a national campaign to encourage young people to talk to their parents or carers about vaccines.
Latest statistics show a decline in vaccine uptake among children and young people. PHS data also shows boys are less likely to receive the DTP, MenACWY and HPV vaccines than girls.
Routine vaccinations are available through clinics at schools. Consent packs are sent home containing a letter, consent form and leaflet. Some health boards are already sending packs in preparation for vaccinations taking place between January and March 2024.
The Chat. Sign. Protect. campaign is aiming to get young people to share the consent packs with their parents and carers in order to get their consent forms signed.
Dr Claire Cameron, Consultant in Health Protection, PHS said:
‘Some of the diseases that these vaccines protect against have almost disappeared from the UK as a result of so many people being vaccinated against them over the years. However, cases of meningitis still occur throughout the year and young people are at an increased risk due to the contact they have with others both in and outside of school. We need to maintain high vaccination uptake rates to reduce the risk of infections occurring.
‘Being vaccinated is the best thing you can do to help protect against serious vaccine preventable diseases. We’re encouraging young people to chat to their parents or carers about the free vaccines offered, before signing and returning consent forms to school by the deadline.’
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