WEST Dunbartonshire’s deputy director of public health is urging local parents to continue to immunise their children.

Despite coronavirus being at the forefront of public fear, immunisation continues to be the best way of protecting children against other serious diseases.

Dr Emilia Crighton said: “Even at this challenging time where the country is dealing with COVID-19 we really want parents and carers to get their children immunised so they are protected against other diseases that can be extremely serious in a young child.

“As long as the child, everyone in the household, and the one parent or carer bringing the child to the appointment are well, and not showing signs of Coronavirus, then it’s safe to attend for routine vaccinations.

“Once they have been immunised, their bodies are better able to fight these diseases, if they come in contact with them.

“Immunisation helps protect against serious diseases such as measles, mumps, whooping cough, meningitis, and polio. The benefit of immunisation is that your child has the best possible protection against dangerous diseases. This can give you peace of mind.”

For further information visit  nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/why-immunise/benefits-of-immunisation.