Children are 2-3 times more likely to be ill with flu than adults. As anyone who has had flu will know the fever, aches and chills can put you out of action for days, and in some cases, lead to complications and health problems which need hospital treatment.
This year, the childhood flu immunisation programme will be extended to all 2-11 year olds in Scotland. With thousands of children visiting their GP each year with flu or its complications, every child aged between 2 and 11 will be offered the flu vaccine to protect them and reduce flu spreading to others, particularly those who are older or have serious health conditions.
The vaccine will be offered to children aged 2 to 5 at their GP practice from October. Parents should look out for information from their GP and/or contact their GP practice from October to make an appointment.
Children aged between 5 and 11 will be offered the vaccine at school. An information leaflet and consent form will be sent home in their school bag when they return for the new term. Parents should look out for, and return, the consent form so their child can receive the free flu vaccine.
The vaccine is being offered as a quick, painless and needle-free nasal spray, with only a tiny amount sprayed into each nostril. This type of vaccine was safely given to thousands of children across the UK last year, during the pilot scheme. Children who cannot have the nasal spray may be offered an alternative injectable version.
Dr Nicola Steedman, Senior Medical Officer for the Scottish Government, agrees that children should have the flu vaccine.
She said: “This winter, we’ll be extending our immunisation programme to ensure any child aged between 2 and 11 is protected against the flu virus.
“Flu can be very unpleasant for children, and in some cases can develop into more serious health complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia and middle ear infection. If they get the vaccine they will be protected, and because children are good at spreading flu, the vaccine also reduces the risk of others being infected.
“The vaccine is quick and painless and was safely given to children last year. Side effects such as headaches, muscle aches and runny noses are possible, but are usually mild.
“Once fully implemented it’s estimated that the extension of the programme will prevent an additional 200 deaths a year and up to 1,100 hospitalisations, and because viruses constantly change, the vaccination programme will be repeated every winter.
“We’ve launched a national campaign to ensure that every parent has the facts, is reassured and knows the ways in which the vaccine will be given.
“Even the healthiest of children can become seriously ill as a result of flu, so I’d urge parents to make sure their child is covered.”
Find out more about the flu vaccine for children at immunisationscotland.org.uk/childflu or call the NHS inform helpline on 0800 22 44 88.
Childminders can help to support the campaign by raising awareness amongst parents, grandparents and carers. A variety of campaign materials are available. This includes posters and leaflets. To request a copy of the campaign materials please contact flu@consolidatedpr.com or call 0131 240 6420.