Parliament
It is deeply concerning to hear of the rising surge in cases of whooping cough and the tragic deaths of 5 babies in England. I raised this matter with the First Minister in the Scottish Parliament. Worryingly, uptake in infant vaccinations appears to have fallen in recent times. Babies in the most deprived areas – including here in Maryhill and Springburn – are less likely to be vaccinated.
You can listen to my question and First Minister’s reply below.
Every effort must be made to support midwives, health visitors and local vaccination teams to maximise uptake levels. I am pleased to hear the chief midwifery officer is writing to maternity services to increase uptake.
I would urge all pregnant mothers to get vaccinated, as well asking parents to ensure young children and babies are vaccinated.