Meningococcal ACWY and Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio Vaccinations – Thursday 24th April 2025
Dear Parent/ Carer
We are offering your Year 9 child a free Meningococcal ACWY vaccine and Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio vaccination in the Academy this year.
Please complete the consent form below as soon as possible – even if you do not wish your child to have the vaccine.
https://imms.sirona-cic.org.uk/dtp/2024/consent?v=1.6
What is the Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) Vaccination?
The MenACWY vaccine helps to protect your child against four types of bacteria that can cause meningitis and blood poisoning. These diseases are very serious and can kill.
What is the Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio vaccination?
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio are serious diseases that have practically disappeared in this country due to the vaccination programme. All children need 5 doses of this vaccine to build and maintain immunity. The first 3 doses should have been given as a baby and the fourth dose at around four years old. The fifth dose is due now.
How is the vaccine given?
The vaccinations are given by two injections in the upper arm.
Are There Any Side Effects?
As with most other vaccinations, the side effects of these vaccinations are mild; however, soreness, swelling and redness in the arm are common but wear off in a couple of days. More serious side effects are very rare.
Important notes:
- It is important to talk about the vaccinations with your child.
- You should complete the form as soon as possible, even if you don’t want your child to have the vaccine.
- If we don’t receive a form telling us your wishes, we may invite your child to consent for themselves if they show they understand the vaccination due. This is in line with the Gillick Competency Framework.
- Information about the vaccinations will be put on your child’s health records
No internet access?
If you can’t access the internet, ask your child’s school for a paper consent form, or call us for help on 0300 1245515.
What if I do not want my child to receive the vaccine?
Please complete the form to let us know.
Your child’s school will tell you the date of the vaccination session.
What if my child misses the session?
Catch-up clinics will be available for children who miss the school session. Your child’s school will send information about these clinics after the school session.
Want to learn more?
Immunisations for young people – your questions answered (publishing.service.gov.uk)
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations
Questions?
Contact the School Immunisation Team: 0300 124 5515 or email [email protected]
Yours sincerely
Karen Evans | Head of Specialist Services for Children and Sirona Integrated Immunisation Services
