HEALTH leaders in Worcestershire are encouraging parents with children eligible for a free flu vaccination to act now and get their child protected.
The three Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups (NHS Redditch and Bromsgrove, NHS South Worcestershire and NHS Wyre Forest) are highlighting that the vaccination is the best protection against the virus.
The vaccination is available for children aged two and three at their GP Surgery and children in reception class up to year five will get their vaccination through their school.
The nasal spray vaccination is quick, effective, painless and will protect your child, and those they come into contact with, against the flu virus.
Dr Carl Ellson, Strategic Clinical Lead for the three Worcestershire CCGs, said: “We know coughs and colds are already starting to spread which means flu season is usually right behind.
“Children spread infections easily and tend to forget to keep their hands clean or cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze. If they’re around family members of friends that are over 65 or who have a health condition, they’re putting them at risk too.
“The vaccination is the best protection against what is an unpredictable virus. It can cause severe illness and can even be fatal in some cases. It’s also vital that children get vaccinated every year, vaccines are not for life and just as the virus changes each year so does the vaccine.”
Other ‘at risk’ groups who should protect themselves against flu this winter are:
• People aged over 65
• People with underlying health conditions, such as a heart complaint, lung disease such as asthma, liver disease or have suffered a stroke
• Pregnant women.
For more information visit www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine
