As families across rural Scotland are working through the busy harvest period and many teenagers prepare to leave home for college, university or work, there is plenty to think about – including accommodation, finances and lots more.
However, there is one important job that should be on your checklist and that is ensuring your family’s vaccinations are up to date.
For many farming families, health often comes second to the demands of the business. When there are livestock to care for, crops to bring in and long days on the farm, it is easy to put off making appointments. However, taking a little time now could help protect your family from serious illness.
Following recent outbreaks of meningitis in the UK, the Scottish Government has announced the offer of a time limited Meningococcal group B (Men B) vaccination programme for young people this summer. Meningococcal disease, particularly MenB is rare but can develop rapidly and cause life threatening meningitis or blood poisoning.
Older teenagers and young adults are at increased risk because of close social contact, shared accommodation, and busy student lifestyles including nights out or parties where they may share drinks or vapes. Before they leave home, parents should check their son’s or daughter’s vaccination status and see if they have received the vaccinations recommended for their age.
At RSABI, we know that farming families often have busy lives and health appointments can slip down the priority list. Taking a few minutes to check vaccination records before the new term starts could help protect young people at a time when they are meeting lots of new people.
More News
-
Health Hut: Farmers urged to be aware of the risks and signs of Sepsis
-
RSABI launches trained mediators to help farming families resolve disputes
Vaccination is equally important for other generations on the farm. Grandparents often play a vital role in family farming businesses, while pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions may also be eligible for seasonal vaccines.
The annual flu vaccine is still one of best ways to reduce the risk of serious illness during the winter months, while Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines help to protect older adults and babies by reducing the risk of severe respiratory infection.
Healthy people are the backbone of every farming business. When illness affects one member of the family, the impact can be detrimental across the whole farm, particularly during busy periods when there is little spare capacity.
Protecting yourself through vaccination is another way of safeguarding not only your own health but also your family, your business, and your rural community.
If you are unsure which vaccinations, you or your family are due, speak to your GP practice or local NHS vaccination team. A simple check today could help keep everyone well through the winter months and beyond.
Share