Thanks to immunisation, diseases such as polio have disappeared in the UK. However, these diseases could come back as they are still seen in many countries throughout the world – which is why it’s so important to get your jabs.

Although you were probably immunised against tetanus, diphtheria and polio as a child, and may have some protection, you still need a Teenage booster to complete your routine immunisations and give you longer-term protection.

Likewise you need a booster dose of the MenC vaccine as a teenager to be protected from meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) caused by meningococcal group C bacteria. The booster dose increases protection against MenC and is given at the same time as the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster.

Likewise many teenagers have not had the two doses of the MMR vaccine required to ensure they are protected from Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

The HPV vaccine, given to girls in S2, protects against cervical cancer.

These vaccinations are provided in school by the NHS Lothian school nurse team. If you are due to be vaccinated you will receive a letter.  Please ensure you read this and discuss vaccination with your parents or carers.

Please return completed consent forms to the school.

More information can be found on the Immunisation Scotland website.