Has your 2-3 year old child had their nasal flu?

 

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Flu is a common infection in babies and children and can be very unpleasant for them.

Children under the age of 5 have the highest hospital admission rates for flu compared to other age groups.

  • All children aged 2 and 3 years old (on 31 August before flu vaccinations start in the autumn) are eligible for a free flu vaccination in the form of a nasal spray.
  • However, not all parents are aware of this or take up the offer.

In addition, any child over the age of 6 months with a condition that puts them at higher risk of severe complications if they get flu should also have a free flu vaccine. This includes children with serious breathing problems (such as some children with asthma), serious heart conditions, severe kidney or liver disease, diabetes, immunosuppression or problems with the spleen. Most will have the nasal spray vaccine but it is not recommended for children under the age of 2 years who will be offered an injected vaccine instead

In addition, any child over the age of 6 months with a condition that puts them at higher risk of severe complications if they get flu should also have a free flu vaccine. This includes children with serious breathing problems (such as some children with asthma), serious heart conditions, severe kidney or liver disease, diabetes, immunosuppression or problems with the spleen. Most will have the nasal spray vaccine but it is not recommended for children under the age of 2 years who will be offered an injected vaccine instead.

There are some children for whom the nasal spray is not suitable. GP practices will check suitability before offering the vaccine.

Vaccinations need to be given in the autumn or early winter before flu typically starts to circulate

Flu viruses can change every year so the vaccine is usually updated each year. Therefore the vaccine needs to be given on an annual basis.

Please book an appointment with one of our practice nurses

Published: Nov 27, 2023