Parents given flu warning as 'high rates' seen in babies and children

Doctors are urging parents in Wales to get their children the flu vaccine warning there are already high numbers of cases in this age group. They warned flu isn't just a bad cold and can lead to complications and even hospital admission.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has produced a flu vaccine fact sheet for parents and carers in Wales as they report "high rates of flu among babies, children, and young people this winter".

"Every winter in the UK, thousands of children, even those without underlying health conditions, need hospital care because of flu," the RCPCH warned. 

RCPCH officer for Wales, Dr Malcolm Gajraj, said: "Flu is not something to take lightly. We are already seeing considerable cases of flu among children in Wales and we know from experience that flu can lead to serious illness and hospital stays.

"The vaccine is safe, effective, and the best way to protect your child. By getting your child vaccinated you’re helping to keep them well and reduce the spread of flu in our communities." 

Common flu symptoms to look out for include:

• A high temperature

• Aching muscles and joints

• Extreme tiredness

• Cold-like symptoms such as a cough and sore throat

In some cases flu can lead to more serious problems like pneumonia or needing hospitalisation.

Doctors say the best way to help protect children is to get them vaccinated against flu.

"The flu vaccine is safe, effective, and offered free by the NHS. It not only helps protect your child from becoming seriously unwell but also helps reduce the spread of flu to others who may be more vulnerable, such as grandparents, babies, and those with long-term health conditions."

The flu vaccine for children

NHS Wales offers a free children’s flu vaccine every autumn or early winter to:

• All children aged two and three years of age on August 31 of that year

• School-aged children from reception to year 11

• Children aged six months to 17 years with certain long- term health conditions

How the flu vaccine is given

Most children eligible for a flu vaccine can have a nasal spray which is quick, painless, and effective. Some children may be offered the injected flu vaccine instead especially if they’re under two years old, are pregnant, have allergies or a weakened immune systemn, have a wheezy chest on the day or in the previous three days, or have recent asthma symptoms.

They do not accept the use of porcine gelatine in medical products and families can discuss which which vaccine is suitable for their child.

This is where the vaccine is given

Details on local arrangements are available on health board websites but in general children aged two to three can get their vaccine from their GP and in some areas in their nursery.

Children at school usually get their flu vaccine in school. If they're not in mainstream education theyn can have their flu vaccine at their GP surgery.

Children aged under two, or 16 or 17 years of age, and at greater risk of complications from flu due to a health condition will be invited by their GP to have their vaccine.