Flu is much more serious than a bad cold. It can spread quickly and cause sudden and serious illness, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Children under five are especially at risk and are more likely to be hospitalised with flu than any other age group.
The best way to protect your child is with the flu vaccine. It is safe, quick, and free. Most children will get a nasal spray which is painless and done in seconds, with no needles used.
Getting your child vaccinated from flu also helps protect others such as grandparents, babies, school friends, and anyone else with health problems.
Where can you get your child vaccinated?
For children aged 2 to 3 years old:
- Book an appointment at your local GP surgery or community pharmacy
- Or use the pharmacy finder for walk-in appointments.
For school-aged children (Reception to Year 11):
- School-aged children will be offered the flu vaccine in school between September and December.
- Please complete the consent form whether you want your child to receive the flu vaccine, if they have already had it elsewhere, or you do not wish them to be vaccinated. Children who are home-educated, or have certain health problems, may also get the vaccine through their GP.
- If your child misses their school session, you can book them into a catch-up clinic.
For full details of how to get your child vaccinated from flu, including the consent form, please go to: https://www.yourhealthbarnet.org/childhood-cold-and-flu-vaccine.