Parents are being encouraged to make sure their children get free flu vaccines this half term. 

Children aged two and three can get a free nasal spray flu vaccine at their GP practice.

Dr Karl Graham, GP at Hedge End Medical Centre and clinical director for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board, said: “We know children can pick up and pass on flu when mixing, and although most are pretty resilient, if they do catch flu, it can often lead to feeling really unwell.

“A runny nose, coughs, and sneezes, not being able to sleep well – these are just some of the symptoms of flu which are not pleasant for anyone. 

“Taking up the offer of a free flu vaccination for your two and three-year-old will help protect them from getting flu. If they do get flu, it can really reduce the symptoms.

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“It will also prevent them from spreading it to those around them, including older people who can get quite ill from flu.”

For most toddlers, the flu vaccination will be in the form of two quick squirts of spray up the nose, which is often described as a ‘little tickle’ and carried out at your GP practice.

All children from age two up to the age of 16 are eligible for a free flu jab, with most of them having it at their school.

Children aged six months and over in a clinical risk group are also eligible for both the flu and COVID-19 vaccination.

Parents can book a flu appointment for their pre-school children by calling their GP practice. 

Children who are at school will be offered vaccination via their school and parents will be asked to give consent electronically.