All You Need to Know About the New Shingles Vaccine – Shingrix
Firstly – what is Shingles? Shingles is also known as Herpes Zoster and is a severely painful blistering skin rash that can only occur in those that have previously had chickenpox. The rash can result in persistent pain (post-herpetic neuralgia) at the rash site long after it has cleared up. The chickenpox virus stays inactivated […]
Reluctance or Refusal to Vaccinate one of the 10 Threats to Global Health
This year April 7th is World Health Day and we should celebrate the achievements in the field of vaccination. However, despite vaccine availability, many refuse or hesitate to be vaccinated despite vaccines being available. Vaccination is one of the best ways of avoiding disease. It prevents ill-health, death and disability. With an outbreak of measles […]
Are you anxious about the flu shot?
A recent survey has shown that a large number of parents are very sceptical about giving the flu vaccine to their children. Fears included: More than 50% think the flu shot can give you the flu A third don’t think the vaccine works A third think the flu vaccine is a conspiracy 28% are worried […]
The MMR Vaccine – Time to take action
Measles cases have risen sharply across Europe in recent years, prompting global health authorities to urge countries to strengthen vaccination efforts. Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications—yet it is entirely preventable through vaccination. The World Health Organization has repeatedly warned about outbreaks across Europe, driven largely by reduced vaccination uptake. Tens […]
What to expect after your child’s vaccinations
After receiving vaccination(s), your baby may cry for a little while but this usually settles quickly with a cuddle or a feed. Most babies don’t have any reaction, but at site of injection (upper arm or thigh) there could be: Swelling Redness Small hard lump These settle within 2-3 days and do not need any […]
Meningitis Vaccination for Teenagers
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges). It can affect anyone but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Many people carry the bacteria in their noses and throats without becoming infected but can pass it onto others (carriers). It is thought […]
Human Papillomavirus vaccination (Gardasil9) in boys and gay men
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common viral infection with over 100 strains, some of which cause simple hand warts or verrucas, but some can cause the sexually-transmitted infection genital warts or a range of cancers (cervical, vaginal, vulval, penile, anal and oral). Gay and bisexual men have high rates of HPV infection and HPV-related […]
Adult Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
What is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)? It is a highly contagious, common childhood infection of the mouth, skin of the hands and feet. It occurs worldwide, but in temperate climates, it is more usual in summer and autumn. What Causes Hand Foot and Mouth Disease? HFMD is often caused by the group […]
Meningitis Vaccination Update
What is Meningitis Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Bacteria or a virus usually causes it, but bacterial meningitis is the most serious type. In the UK and Ireland, meningococcal bacteria (Neisseria Meningitidis) are the commonest cause of meningitis. There are 13 different strains of this bacterium and […]
