Flu Season Warning

Rising Cases in England

The NHS has warned of an early flu season, with the latest data for England showing an increase in cases and hospital admissions. Health officials are urging parents to get their children vaccinated against flu during half-term, as the disease can spread quickly in schools and make kids really unwell.

Vaccination Options

Many school children have already received the vaccine at school, but there are still options for those who have not received the vaccine. Family practices can administer flu vaccines to school-age children and children with certain health conditions, as well as two- to three-year-olds. Preschool-aged children can also be taken to pharmacies for vaccination. Most children are offered the vaccine as a nasal spray rather than an injection.

Concerns and Warnings

NHS England’s weekly flu and Covid surveillance report has noted increased flu activity, particularly in children. This has raised concerns among health officials, who are warning that flu can spread like wildfire in schools. The virus changes every year, so vaccination remains the best way to protect children from serious illness.

Call to Action

Parents are being urged to ensure their child is registered for vaccination at school or to visit the nearest clinic. Pop-up clinics will be held in various locations, making it easy for parents to get their children vaccinated. The vaccine is quick, easy, and safe, and health officials are stressing its importance in protecting children and mitigating the surge in flu cases.

Current Situation

More than 10 million vaccines have already been administered in the latest campaign, including to almost 1.5 million school-aged children and over 300,000 eligible two and three year olds. However, health officials are warning that the peak of the flu season has not yet been reached, and it is still important for parents to get their children vaccinated.

Eligibility for Free Vaccinations

Free vaccinations are available to people over age 65 who have certain long-term health conditions, are pregnant, live in a nursing home, are the primary caregiver of an elderly or disabled person, or live with someone who has a weakened immune system. By getting vaccinated, individuals can protect themselves and those around them from the flu.