With the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warning that flu levels are currently high for young people, south west London parents are being urged to ensure their children get their free NHS protection against the misery of the virus.
The UKHSA says flu rates have been estimated to be high among five to 14-year-olds and very young children have little natural immunity.
That has led to a reminder from south west London’s medical director John Byrne that the flu nasal spray vaccine is currently being offered to all primary school children. The spray, which is directed into each nostril, will also be available for some secondary school years later this season.
Dr Byrne explained that flu is not just a heavy cold – it can be a very unpleasant illness for children and can lead to serious complications, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
He said symptoms can appear quickly and include a high temperature, an aching body, feeling exhausted, sore throat and runny nose or loss of appetite. Children may also become less active and get ear pain.
Children are known to be ‘super spreaders’ as well, due to being in regular close contact at school and through extra-curricular clubs and activities.
It is particularly important younger children get vaccinated this year”
Dr John Byrne, Medical Director, NHS South West London
He said: “Please get your children vaccinated because flu is a very common childhood illness and can be really unpleasant for them. Younger children are unlikely to have built up natural immunity to flu and therefore it is particularly important they get protected this year. The vaccine is a nasal spray – a single squirt up each nostril that is quick and painless.”
Dr Byrne also reminded eligible adults to get their free flu vaccination and autumn Covid-19 booster jab. Hospitalisation rates for flu are highest in those aged 85 and over.
He said: “This winter could be the first time we see the effects of having both flu and Covid-19 in full circulation, so it is vital that those most susceptible to serious illness from these viruses come forward for vaccines to protect themselves and those around them. Both vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones this winter.”
Having the flu jab is just one way in which people can support the local NHS at what remains a very busy time. If people get ill, those with less serious conditions are encouraged to ‘talk before they walk’ by getting advice from the free NHS 111 phone and online service to check symptoms and decide on the best course of action.
People with minor injuries or mild conditions which can be better dealt with at home or with over-the-counter remedies and advice from community pharmacists are reminded not to go to A&E and call NHS 111 if they are unsure. Using 999 is for emergencies and should only be called if the situation is life-threatening.
The nasal spray flu vaccine is free on the NHS for:
- children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2022 (born between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2020)
- all primary school children (Reception to Year 6)
- some secondary school aged children
- children aged 2 to 17 years with long-term health conditions.
If your child is aged between six months and two years and has a long-term health condition that makes them at higher risk from flu, they will be offered a flu vaccine injection instead of the nasal spray.
The nasal spray vaccine offers the best protection for children aged two to 17 years. They will be offered a flu vaccine injection if the nasal spray vaccine is not suitable for them. Injected flu vaccines are also safe and effective.
Find out more about the children’s flu vaccine on the NHS website nhs.ukAdults who are eligible for an NHS flu vaccination:
- are 50 and over (including those who will be 50 by 31 March 2023)
- have certain health conditions
- are pregnant
- are in long-stay residential care
- receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
- live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.