Vaccination

Vaccines are a crucial part of our defence against infectious diseases. Did you know:

  • Vaccines reduce the spread of infectious disease and even get rid of some completely.
  • When enough people get vaccinated, it’s harder for a disease to spread to those who can’t have vaccines.
  • Getting vaccinated protects not only you but also your family, friends and community.
  • Vaccines are made to prevent people from getting serious infectious diseases. It’s much safer for your immune system to learn to fight illness through vaccination than by catching and treating them.

COVID-19 vaccination

We’re coordinating the COVID-19 vaccination programme in South West London. Vaccination will give you the best protection against COVID-19.

The vaccines are safe and effective, but if you are unsure speak to your GP or local pharmacist. You can also call 119 for free to talk with someone.

Read more about COVID-19 vaccination

Other available vaccines

You and your family may be entitled to a range of immunisations that will help keep you healthy. Vaccines are rigorously tested and are the best line of defence against disease.

Flu is a common infectious viral illness spread by coughs and sneezes. It can be very unpleasant, but you’ll usually begin to feel better within about a week.

However, it can lead to serious complications if you have a long-term health condition and it can be horrible for little children. If children catch flu they can also quickly spread it around the whole family. 

The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get the flu jab.  

Who can get the flu jab and how to get it

MMR is the combined vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella. MMR immunisation is the safest way that parents can protect their children against measles, mumps and rubella – diseases that can be serious for babies, young children and their families.
 
The number of cases of measles isn’t only increasing in young children – older children, teenagers and adults are getting it too. 
 
To be protected you need to be immunised with MMR vaccine.

Read more about the MMR jab

The HPV vaccine protects against the two strains of HPV (16 and 18) that cause cervical cancer in over 70% of women. It does not protect against any other sexually transmitted infections or against pregnancy.

Because the HPV vaccine does not protect against all cervical cancers, it is really important for all girls to have cervical screening later in life.

Read more about HPV vaccination

If you’re planning to travel outside the UK, you may need to be vaccinated against some of the serious diseases found in other parts of the world.

NHS travel vaccinations overview