Databank. Immunisation statistics
Databank
Immunisation statistics
Figures have recently been announced by the Department of Health on NHS immunisation of children in England for the year 1997-1998. These show that about 96 per cent of two year-olds had been immunised by their second birthday against diphtheria, tetanus and polio. About 95 per cent of two year-olds had been immunised against Haemophilus influenzae b, 94 per cent against pertussis and 91 per cent against measles,mumps and rubella. About 550,000 children were given reinforcing doses against diphtheria, tetanus and polio by school entry age and over 300,000 school leavers received further reinforcing doses. About 450,000 tuberculin skin tests were administered, mostly to children aged ten to 15. Of these about 10 per cent tested positive and had probably already developed some immunity to tuberculosis. BCG vaccination is not given in such circumstances.
