Byron Medical Practice

16/01/2026

14/01/2026

The NI childhood immunisation schedule is changing giving even better protection with the introduction of the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

From January 2026, eligible children will be offered a combined vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) - as part of the routine infant vaccination schedule.

As with other childhood immunisations, parents will be contacted by their GP surgery to arrange an appointment if their child is eligible. If you are unsure if your child is up to date with vaccinations the easiest way to check is to look at your child’s red book or speak to your health visitor or GP.

Find out more at www.nidirect.gov.uk/childhood-immunisation

14/01/2026

12/01/2026

12/01/2026

MMRV is now part of the NHS routine childhood vaccination programme, replacing the MMR vaccine.

It protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.

Chickenpox is very common and can sometimes lead to serious complications, so vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness as children grow.

You don’t need to do anything — your GP will be in touch when your child is due.

More advice ➡️ https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmrv-vaccine/

12/01/2026

Your pharmacist can provide treatment or some prescription medicine, if needed, for seven common conditions - without you seeing a GP.

Think pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team.

12/01/2026

❄️As the cold weather continues here is a reminder on staying safe around water this winter. Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself and others:
✨ Take well-lit paths and routes home
🧊 Stay off the ice
🤝 Keep dogs on a lead and children within reach

If you have older children out and about on their own remind them to keep off the ice and if the worst happens and they, or a friend falls into cold water make sure they know what to do to get help.

Learn more about Winter Water Safety: https://www.rlss.org.uk/pages/category/winter-water-safety

12/01/2026

Stay well this winter and help stop the spread😷🦠

📌Take common sense steps to reduce the spread of flu and other similar illnesses by exercising good respiratory and hand hygiene and staying away from others if you have symptoms.

📌Self-care is often the best choice to treat minor illnesses. Pharmacists are qualified to give advice about different health matters, including minor illnesses, so consider speaking to a pharmacist before going to your GP.

📌And if eligible get your flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine and RSV vaccine.
www.nidirect.gov.uk/wintervaccines

24/12/2025

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