Looked-after young people run higher TB risk as few are vaccinated

Most children in care are not up to date with vaccinations, a
professor of public health told delegates.

Woody Caan, of Anglia Polytechnic University, said only 1 per cent
were immunised against tuberculosis, yet this group spends at least
one period homeless every year in environments where they are
likely to come into contact with the disease.

He added that, even though one third of adolescents in care
self-harm regularly, many are not followed up after attending
accident and emergency departments.

He said: “The system breaks down if they are not registered with a
GP or in a stable school placement. They miss out on the follow-up
letter.”