Public Health

UASC’s are not routinely screened for health conditions when they first arrive in the UK unless they present as unwell. The CIC nurse team will arrange for the young person to have their immunisations once placed in foster care.

ALL carers (not just UASC Carers) are advised to have the following vaccines:

Diphtheria - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diphtheria/

It is advised that 5 doses of diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccines at the appropriate interval should ensure long term protection through adulthood (although additional doses may be indicated for travel or following potential exposure). Anyone who has not completed the 5 doses should discuss with their GP Surgery.

A full course of 5 doses providing long-term protection is normally given at the following ages:

2 months

3 months

4 months

3.4 years

14 years

But if there is any potential exposure to actual diphtheria the GP surgery should be contacted to discuss a further dose.

It is also recommended that carers are vaccinated against the following:

Hepatitis B and carers should have received 2 doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

Other Health Conditions

TB – depending upon which country the young person comes from they are routinely tested for TB. This is arranged by the CIC Nurses. On the rare occasion when a young person arrives and is unwell carers will be advised about how to treat the condition prior to placement. Tuberculosis (TB) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Scabies – this is a very common skin condition which is easily treated by cream obtained from the local pharmacy. Advice is that UASC/EDS carers keep a supply of this. Scabies - NHS (www.nhs.uk)