Flu can be a very unpleasant illness in children causing fever, stuffy nose, dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints, and extreme tiredness. This can last several days or more. Having the vaccine will help protect against from what can be a very nasty illness in children. Children under the age of 5 years have the highest rate of hospital admissions due to flu.
The flu vaccine is offered free to:
- children aged 2 or 3 years old (on 31 August before flu vaccinations start in the autumn), which is administered via a nasal spray
- some school-aged children with a health condition that puts them at greater risk from flu
Children of any age who are considered “at risk” due to a health condition are now also eligible for vaccination. If you are not sure whether your child needs a flu vaccination or you need more advice, speak to your practice nurse, GP or health visitor.
Your GP practice will contact you arrange an appointment, and you may also receive a reminder letter from the NHS. Find out more at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/
