Boosting Immunity: GGD Invites Deurne’s Children to Essential Vaccinations for BMR, HPV, and Meningococcal Disease

Mass Vaccination Campaign Underway for Children in Brabant-Zuidoost

March 16, 2025 – A large-scale vaccination campaign is currently underway in the Brabant-Zuidoost region, with invitations being sent to 23,000 children and young people for vaccinations against BMR (mumps, measles, rubella), HPV (Human papillomavirus), and meningococci. The GGD Brabant-Zuidoost is administering these vaccinations at various locations through April 18.

Vaccination Details and Schedule

The vaccinations are being conducted at various locations, including Deurne’s sports hall De Kubus. According to officials, “This month, 23,000 children and young people from our region receive an invitation for vaccinations against BMR (mumps, measles, rubella), HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and meningococci.”

• Invitation Details: Invitations with a scheduled date, time, and location are sent via RIVM post or GGD.
• Walk-in Option: Alternative walk-in appointments are available for those unable to attend their scheduled time. Such as, in Deurne, walk-in vaccinations are available on March 31 at Sporthal de kubus (Meent 1) from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Target Age Groups and Vaccinations

The campaign targets specific age groups for different vaccinations, reflecting a proactive approach to public health.

• BMR Vaccination: Children born in 2016 will receive an invitation for the BMR vaccination. Those born between June 1, 2015, and December 31, 2015, who remain unvaccinated, will receive a reminder.
• HPV Vaccination: Young people born in 2015 will receive an invitation for their second HPV vaccination or a reminder for their first. Those born between 2007 and 2015 who received their first HPV vaccination last year will receive a reminder for their second.
• Meningococcal Vaccination: Young people born between January 1, 2011, and June 30, 2011, will receive an invitation. Those born between June 1, 2011, and December 31, 2011, will receive their invitation in the fall.

Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination is crucial for protecting children against dangerous and potentially fatal diseases. “Children in the Netherlands are entitled to a free vaccination until the age of eighteen to protect themselves against a number of dangerous and sometimes fatal diseases.”

call to Action

Ensure your child is protected. Check your mail for vaccination invitations from RIVM or GGD and attend the scheduled appointment or a walk-in session. Protecting your children through vaccination contributes to a healthier community for everyone. Don’t delay; act today.

What are the specific age groups targeted for each of the vaccines being administered in the brabant-Zuidoost Vaccination Campaign?

Brabant-Zuidoost Vaccination Campaign: An Interview with Dr. Anna de Vries

Dr. Anna de Vries, a leading public health official with GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, joins us today to discuss the ongoing mass vaccination campaign for children adn young people in the region. Welcome, Dr. de Vries.

Thank you for having me. ItS a pleasure to be here to discuss this important initiative.

Let’s dive right in. The campaign aims to vaccinate 23,000 children against BMR, HPV, and meningococci. Can you elaborate on why this particular campaign is so critical for Brabant-Zuidoost?

Absolutely. These diseases, while preventable through vaccination, can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences, particularly for young children. The BMR vaccine protects against mumps,measles,and rubella,which can lead to complications like pneumonia,encephalitis,and even deafness.HPV vaccination prevents infections that can cause certain cancers later in life. The meningococcal vaccine protects against meningitis, a risky infection of the brain and spinal cord. By vaccinating a large portion of the population,we create herd immunity,protecting those who are too young or unable to be vaccinated.

The campaign seems well-organized, with invitations being sent out and walk-in options available. Can you walk us through how residents can ensure their children receive these vital vaccinations?

Certainly. Parents and guardians should keep an eye out for invitations arriving by post from RIVM or GGD.These invitations contain a scheduled date, time, and location for the vaccination. Though, we understand that life can be unpredictable, so we’re also offering walk-in appointments at various locations and times, like the upcoming session on March 31st at Sporthal de Kubus in deurne. Check the GGD Brabant-Zuidoost website for the full schedule and locations. It’s crucial to attend either the scheduled appointment or a walk-in session to ensure your child is protected.

This campaign targets specific age groups for each vaccination. Why is that the case?

The timing of vaccinations is based on scientific evidence of when the vaccines are most effective and when children are most vulnerable to these diseases. For example,children born in 2016 are now eligible for their BMR vaccination,and adolescents are being targeted for HPV vaccination as it’s most effective before they are exposed to the virus. This targeted approach allows us to use resources efficiently and provide the best possible protection for each age group.

Many parents understandably have questions or concerns about vaccinations. What resources are available to help them make informed decisions?

That’s a very important point. We encourage parents to seek out reliable details from trusted sources.The website of the Rijksvaccinatieprogramma (National Immunisation Program) provides comprehensive information about the diseases these vaccines protect against,the benefits of vaccination,and potential side effects. Steffie.nl also offers simple explanations about vaccinations. The GGD Brabant-Zuidoost website also has a dedicated section on vaccinations. And of course, healthcare professionals are always available to answer any questions or concerns.

Dr. de vries, what would you say to those who are hesitant about vaccinating their children?

I understand that making decisions about your children’s health can be challenging.Though, the scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. Serious side effects are very rare, while the risks of contracting these diseases without vaccination are significant. Vaccination is not only about protecting your own child but also about contributing to a healthier and safer community for everyone, especially those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. We want to encourage open interaction and ensure every parent has the facts needed to make an informed decision. If you have any specific situations feel free to respond to this article and we will consider answering them in a future installment.

Dr. de Vries, thank you for your time and for shedding light on this important vaccination campaign. Where can our readers find more information about the ongoing campaign from GGD Brabant-Zuidoost?

Thank you! You can visit our website at GGD Brabant-Zuidoost for more information on vaccination schedules, locations, and other important details related to child vaccinations in the region. We also have information available and updated on our social media channels.