Why you should be confident in getting vaccinated

Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in human history. They save millions of lives every year by protecting us from dangerous diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines were a beacon of hope. According to the World Health Organization, they saved 475,000 lives in the UK alone, with countless others kept out of hospital.

But today, we face a concerning challenge: vaccine confidence is waning.

Recent research shows that belief in vaccine safety and effectiveness has dropped significantly in the UK, from 90% in 2018 to just 70% in 2023. This trend extends worldwide, with 52 out of 55 countries reporting a decline in vaccine trust.
At The Grange Medical Practice, we’ve seen the effects of this shift first hand. Our goal is to not only provide vaccinations but also rebuild trust and confidence in their necessity.

The Decline in Trust: What Happened?

Dr. Helen Wall, a GP and vaccine rollout leader, reflects on the stark change during the pandemic. Initially, there was overwhelming community support for COVID-19 vaccines. However, misinformation, scepticism, and fatigue eroded public trust. Historical events, such as the discredited claims linking the MMR vaccine to autism, remind us how damaging misinformation can be. Social media has amplified these doubts, spreading rumours faster than ever.
Unfortunately, this distrust isn’t limited to COVID-19 vaccines. Childhood vaccination rates have fallen below recommended levels, with diseases like measles making a resurgence. In England, only 88.9% of children received their first dose of the MMR vaccine in 2024 – the lowest level in 14 years.

At The Grange, we are determined to reverse this trend. Our dedicated nursing team, led by Pam and Chris, works tirelessly to make vaccinations accessible, answer patient concerns, and promote health in our community. From flu jabs to childhood immunisations, our efforts focus on both protection and education.

“Vaccines are a simple yet powerful way to prevent serious illnesses, and we want to make sure everyone has access to them.”

Pamela Venus, Practice Nurse, Vaccination lead

We believe it’s time to change the narrative. Vaccines don’t just protect individuals; they safeguard entire communities. Every jab contributes to herd immunity, protecting those who can’t be vaccinated, like young babies and people with weakened immune systems. Addressing vaccine hesitancy means confronting myths with facts.

Vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness. Without vaccines, diseases like measles, polio, and whooping cough could once again pose a significant threat to our lives. At The Grange, we all are here to answer your questions and provide trusted advice. If you’re unsure about a vaccine, speak to our team – we’re here to help with any questions or doubt you may have. Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s take this step together.