Child flu jab programme in the Isles

Parents and guardians in the Western Isles should look out for the letter about flu vaccination for your child, which have either been sent out by post or should be in your child's schoolbag.

The flu vaccine is offered to all children aged 2-5 years (and not yet in school) at their GP practice; all primary school children at schooland children of all ages with a long-term medical condition will be offered the flu vaccine from six months of age (includes asthma, diabetes, immunosuppressed, any chronic kidney, heart, liver, neurological or respiratory disease)

Flu is very infectious and can be serious. Even healthy children can become seriously ill from flu and can spread it to family, friends and others. Flu can lead to complications that may result in hospitalisation or even death. Every year in Scotland, children are hospitalised for the treatment of flu or its complications. The flu vaccine helps to protect your child against flu and reduces the chance of them spreading the virus to others. The vaccine doesn’t contain flu.

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All children aged 2–5 years and not yet in primary school and all primary school children are being offered the vaccine. Most children will receive a simple, painless nasal spray.

If your child is aged 2-5 years and not yet at school, they will be offered the flu vaccine at your GP practice. You will be sent a letter about arranging an appointment.

If your child is at primary school, they will receive a letter and and consent form from their school. Consent forms need to be returned by Friday October 7.