A call has gone out from the local NHS to south west London parents to get their children vaccinated against flu to help with the fight against Strep A infection.
South West London’s medical director John Byrne issued the reminder after the UK Health Security Agency released analysis showing that a nasal spray vaccine that offers protection to children against flu may also help to reduce the rate of group A strep infections.
Nasal flu vaccine may help reduce cases of group A StrepDr Byrne said that over the past two years and more people have not been mixing as much due to the pandemic, which means that some children are more at risk of catching winter viruses and children who are ill with one virus are more likely to catch another, like Strep A.
The children’s nasal spray flu vaccine is safe, effective and is offered every year to children to help protect them against flu.
The 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 said: “There is a lot that parents and carers can do to help prevent the spread of Strep A and other infections this winter and one of the simplest things is making sure their children are up to date with all their vaccinations.
“Young children catch and spread flu easily, but after vaccination they are less likely to be seriously ill or admitted to hospital and they are also less susceptible to other infections like Strep A.
“Vaccination can also help prevent children passing on the virus to other vulnerable family members or others in the community, so we are urging parents to think about getting their flu vaccination at thousands of available sites ahead of the festive period.”
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.
Adults 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.
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.