16-18 Years Catch Up Campaign

Vaccination is a simple, safe, and effective way of protecting yourself against harmful diseases before you come into contact with them. Vaccinations prevent millions of deaths worldwide every year.

Vaccines work by causing the body’s immune system to make antibodies (substances to fight infections). So if you come into contact with the infection, the antibodies will recognise it and protect you. It is much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them.

All vaccines are thoroughly tested to make sure they will not harm you. More information can be found here How vaccines are tested, licensed and monitored | Vaccine Knowledge Project

Be aware of anti-vaccine stories. Always get your vaccine and health information from trusted sources, such as the NHS or World Health Organisation (WHO). The vaccine information on social media may not be based on scientific evidence and could put you at risk of a serious illness.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) HPV vaccine – NHS

Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) MenACWY vaccine – NHS

Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine – NHS

From January to March 2025, the Lincolnshire Community Health Service Vaccination Team are going to be holding some engagement events and vaccination clinics across the county. You will be able to get any missing vaccinations on the day or if you are unsure a nurse will be available to talk through any worries or questions. Further details to follow.

You can contact the Vaccination Team by emailing lhnt.vrrt@nhs.net.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I have to pay for the vaccines?

    No. These vaccines are provided free by the NHS.

  • How are the vaccines given?

    They are given by injection in the upper arm.

  • What are the side effects of vaccines?

    Most of the side effects of vaccination are mild and do not last long. The most common side effects of vaccination include:

    • the area where the needle goes in looking red, swollen and feeling a bit sore for 2 to 3 days
    • feeling a bit unwell or developing a high temperature for 1 or 2 days
    • feeling tired, having a headache, mild fever, or flu-like symptoms
  • How do I check my vaccine history?

    If you are registered for online services with your GP, you can check your immunisation history. Alternatively you can contact the Vaccination Team by emailing lhnt.vrrt@nhs.net

    View your GP health record - NHS

  • Can I consent to having a vaccination?

    At 16 years of age a young person is presumed in law to have the capacity to consent, so young people aged 16 or 17 years should consent to their own medical treatment.

    Consent to treatment - Children and young people - NHS

  • Is natural immunity better? Will catching the disease make my immune system stronger than a vaccine?

    There is no other proven, effective way to immunise yourself against infectious diseases without experiencing the serious risk of that infection. Some infections can cause serious illness, hospitalisation, and life-long disabilities.

     

    Vaccines teach your immune system how to create antibodies that protect them from diseases. It's much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them.

  • I’ve already had sex, can I still get the HPV vaccine?

    Definitely. The vaccine can protect you from other types of HPV that you might not have so it’s important to still get vaccinated.

  • I have a fear of needles!

    Needle phobia is very common and is nothing to be ashamed of. Simple exercises and practice can help to overcome it.

    • Talk to the nurse so they know how to help make it easier for you.
    • Make sure you’ve eaten and are well hydrated before coming for your vaccinations.
    • Use distraction techniques such as listening to music, watching something on your phone, bringing a friend to the appointment.
    • Use breathing techniques if you’re feeling anxious – sit up straight in a comfortable position and let your shoulders and jaw relax. Put one hand low on your stomach. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose and out through your mouth. Do this for five breaths.