02 November 2009
Swine flu vaccinations will start in Jersey nurseries and schools on Wednesday 11 November provided expected supplies of vaccine arrive.
Vaccines will be offered in the largest schools and nurseries first as children are at increased risk of catching and passing on swine flu when they mix with large numbers of other children in schools and nurseries. The programme, which is unprecedented in terms of size and logistics, aims to vaccinate about 16,000 children in approximately 70 nurseries and schools across the Island
The vaccination programme will start with thirteen teams, comprising a total of 44 immunisers, visiting schools with more than 250 pupils.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr Rosemary Geller, said: “Children and young people are one of the groups most vulnerable to swine flu. We’re starting with the largest schools first because they are at the greatest risk of spread of disease.
“The vaccine is not compulsory however I strongly recommend that parents consent to their child being vaccinated. As a health worker I was among the first to have the vaccine and my children will be having it as soon as it is their turn.”
Consultant Paediatrician, Mark Jones, said: “Swine flu can be a serious illness which, for some children, can lead to pneumonia and hospital admission or intensive care. Vaccination is the best way to protect children from this virus. The vaccines against swine flu are safe and have been licensed for use in children above the age of six months.”
Immunisation Specialist, Dr Linda Diggle, who is co-ordinating the nurses to deliver the programme, said: “We have a large team of immunisers and we hope to get around all schools and nurseries within two weeks provided expected supplies of vaccine arrive. Our immunisers pulled out all the stops to deliver the vaccine to health care staff, which led to an exceptional uptake. This is evidence that health staff recognise the seriousness of swine flu infection.”
Information about the vaccine programme and consent forms have been sent to parents in all primary schools and nurseries. Information will be sent to secondary schools shortly.
In addition, five information evenings have been organised to allow parents to get their questions answered by medical experts. These will be held on:
1. Wednesday 4 November, 5.30pm at St Peter’s Community Centre.
2. Monday 9 November, 5.30pm at Haute Vallée School
3. Monday 9 November, 7.30pm at Le Rocquier School
4. Wednesday 11 November at 7.30pm, Hautlieu School
5. Thursday 12 November at 7.30pm, Hautlieu School.
Parents who would like their child to have the vaccine are being asked to return their child’s consent form to their school as soon as possible.
gov.je