Issue - meetings

– Progress report for review – Dr Nadia Inglis

Nadia Inglis reported that a 2019 Coventry and Warwickshire immunisation and screening review had assessed the uptake of routine childhood and adult/older people’s vaccinations against national targets. It identified that primary immunisation uptake had reduced across all three clinical commissioning group (CCG) areas for certain vaccinations. In particular, there had been reduced uptake of the pre-school immunisations, and uptake of two doses of the combined MMR. Data was provided to evidence this together with the rates of uptake of one dose of MMR and the uptake rate required to achieve ‘herd’ immunity. A similar pattern was seen for the 4 in 1 pre-school booster. Currently uptake was below levels required for herd immunity. An enhanced seasonal flu vaccination scheme would be provided this year.

Questions and comments were invited, with responses provided:

• The Chair asked about capacity to deliver the increased number of flu immunisations in a timely manner for them to be effective.  There was a lot of planning taking place by NHS colleagues.
• Concerns about cross boundary arrangements for GP services. The automated messaging being used by one practice was somewhat abrupt. The school vaccine programme was discussed and this would be provided in schools by CWPT.
• Dr Spraggett commented on the effective arrangements in place for the annual flu vaccinations. He was concerned at the logistical problems from the additional cohort of eligible people aged 50 to 64, which doubled the number of vaccinations. Additional areas of concern were the Covid-19 restrictions, the different vaccines for different age groups and concerns when sufficient quantities of the various vaccines would be received. Finally, if the Covid vaccine was available, this would increase significantly the number of vaccinations to be provided. A brief discussion on ways in which staffing capacity could be increased.

Resolved

That the Board notes the work being undertaken to increase the uptake of childhood immunisations in Warwickshire, and that Board members provide appropriate organisational support for the actions proposed.