I'm a parent to a baby born at 27 weeks. This journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with months spent in hospital fighting alongside my little one just to bring him home. But now, as we step into this next chapter, a new fear looms over our family: the current vaccine eligibility criteria leave preterm children like my son at an increased risk.

Currently, the eligibility for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19 vaccines does not adequately cover the needs of preterm children. Our children, born too soon, have more fragile lungs and weakened immune systems, which increases their vulnerability to severe illnesses. This increased risk means every cough, sneeze, or fever sends us spiraling into concern, constantly fearing for their health and well-being.

Statistics show that preterm infants are at a higher risk for severe complications from respiratory infections. According to the World Health Organization, prematurity is a leading cause of death in children under five years of age, and respiratory illnesses can exacerbate this risk further. Yet, the NHS guidelines concerning RSV and COVID-19 vaccinations don't align with these well-documented vulnerabilities.

We urge the NHS and the UK government to reconsider and expand the RSV and COVID-19 vaccine eligibility criteria to include all preterm children. By doing so, we can take a critical step towards safeguarding the health of our most vulnerable young ones. We need inclusive healthcare policies that recognize and address the unique challenges these children face. Ensuring widespread vaccine access doesn't just protect individual children, but also promotes public health and prevents potential outbreaks that could affect many more.

No parent should be left in constant fear of their child's next breath. By signing this petition, you stand with families like mine who call for a safer, healthier future for our preterm children. Join us in urging the NHS to take swift action and protect these precious lives.