Dr Henry Prempeh, Health Protection Consultant and Immunisation Co-ordinator is urging parents and carers to ensure their child gets their flu vaccine this winter.
The flu vaccine is usually given as a painless nasal spray and is a safe way to help protect your child against flu. It should start to protect most children against flu about 10-14 days after being vaccinated and will reduce the risk of your child getting flu or spreading it to family and friends who are at greater risk from flu.
Parents and carers can now book an appointment if they have children aged 2 to 5 who are not in school or 6 months to 4 years at risk. At risk conditions include diabetes, heart disease and immunosuppression to name a few. A list of eligible conditions is available on the NHS Inform website.
By contacting the NHS Lanarkshire vaccination line on 01698 687456 parents and carers can book a time and place suitable for them and their child. The opening hours for the appointment line are Monday to Thursday 9am – 5pm and Friday 9.00am – 4.30pm.
Dr Prempeh said: “The flu virus changes every year, that’s why it’s important to get your child vaccinated so that your child has the most up to date protection. Getting your child vaccinated against flu can also protect them from other infections with bacteria that can follow flu, and prevent them from getting sick and missing out on nursery, school or other activities.
“Flu can be serious. Even healthy children can become seriously ill from flu. In some cases, flu can lead to complications including bronchitis, pneumonia, painful ear infections, vomiting and diarrhoea.
“The vaccine will also reduce the risk of your child getting or spreading flu to family and friends who are at greater risk.”
Influenza (flu) is an infectious respiratory virus. Symptoms may include a fever, a cough, a headache, and tiredness.
The annual vaccine offers protection against the most common types of flu virus that are around each winter.
For more information about the child flu vaccine, visit NHS Inform: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/vaccines/child-flu-vaccine/
