PARENTS are being urged to make sure that their children are vaccinated with some areas of Gloucestershire below the national targeted level as part of Immunisation Awareness Week.

When immunisation rates are high, the wider community is protected, including infants who are too young to be vaccinated, older people and people who take medication that lowers their immune system.

A 95 per cent vaccination rate is the recommended figure, however in Gloucestershire the figure for pre-school vaccinations for children is below 90 per cent in some circumstances.

Dave McConalogue, consultant in public health at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Vaccinations save lives. The success of immunisation has meant that several horrible diseases have become very rare, and we want to keep it that way.

“By making sure your child has had all their vaccinations before starting school, you’re giving them the best possible chance to stay healthy and well.”

For a full list of vaccinations, visit: nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/vaccination-schedule-age-checklist.aspx.