Fife parents and carers urged to get young kids vaccinated against flu

Parents and carers of kids between the ages of 2 and 5 are being urged to make sure their child is vaccinated against flu.

It's as there are concerns that immunity levels might be lower this year.

Appointment letters are arriving to invite parents and carers of 2 to 5-year-olds across the Kingdom to get their children to have a free flu nasal spray.

The nasal spray is described as "quick", "painless" and feeling like a "tickle in the nose".

Letters will have details on where and when the vaccine will be provided.

Professor Nicola Steedman, the Scottish Government's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said: "Flu can be serious, even for healthy children and young people.

"That’s why we’re immunising all children aged 2 up to secondary school pupils in S6 against flu this year.

"With public health restrictions in place last year, everybody, including young children were not exposed to the flu virus and are likely to have lower immunity to flu than in previous years.

"I’d urge all parents and carers to take up the offer of getting the free flu vaccine for their child this year and help stop the spread of flu. The vaccine is safe and offers the best protection we have against flu."

Dr Joy Tomlinson, the Director of Public Health for NHS Fife, said: "Children aged between 2 and 5-years-old are eligible for the free flu vaccine and we will soon be inviting parents and carers to attend a vaccination appointment.

"It’s quick, painless and just feels like a tickle in their nose. 

"Please do turn up at your appointment to get your 2 to 5-year-old immunised against flu to protect themselves and others this winter." 

More information is available on the NHS Inform website.

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