Parents and carers urged to vaccinate toddlers against flu

NHS chiefs say the best way for people to protect their toddlers against complications of the flu is to arrange a vaccination.

The flu vaccination programme is well underway across the region, with thousands of parents and carers having already taken up the opportunity. 

As a result of covid restrictions, influenza activity levels were extremely low globally last year. With social mixing and social contact returning towards pre-pandemic norms, it is expected that this will be the first winter during which flu and covid circulate together. 

It is also anticipated that there may be a higher rate of flu infection.  

Research shows that people who have flu and covid at the same time are more likely to be seriously ill. 

People with children aged two or three are urged to make a flu vaccine appointment with their GP practice.   

Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said: “Each year, the NHS vaccinates millions of people against flu, and this year it is even more important than ever that eligible children and adults take up the offer of a free flu vaccine, as we head towards what is likely to be a very challenging winter for the NHS.

“Infection with the flu virus has a serious impact on the health of thousands of people every winter, and getting your child vaccinated will protect them, and will also reduce the chance of them passing it to other family members and loved ones. 

"This is particularly important at this time of year when several generations of families may be coming together in close contact over the festive period. Please book an appointment for your child to get the vaccine as soon as possible.”

Flu symptoms can appear very quickly and include a high temperature, an aching body, feeling exhausted, sore throat and runny nose and loss of appetite. Children may also become less active and get ear pain.

The nasal spray flu vaccine is free on the NHS for:

- Children aged two or three years on 31 August 2021 – born between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2019

- All primary school children (reception to year 6)

- All year 7 to year 11 children in secondary school

- Children aged 2 to 17 years with long-term health conditions

Even if a child had a flu vaccination last year, the type of flu can vary each winter, so it is recommended that they have the flu vaccine each year to boost their immunity.

The nasal spray is described as safe and effective and offers the best protection for children aged 2 to 17 years. In some instances, an alternative to the nasal spray can be offered if the nasal spray vaccine is not suitable. 

Parents and guardians are asked to speak to their child’s nurse or doctor if they are aged two or three and their school immunisations team if their child is in Primary to Year 11 at school. 

Parents and carers of home-schooled children should contact their local community clinic.