Parents encouraged to protect children against flu with free HSE nasal spray flu vaccination

The HSE has launched the free nasal spray flu vaccination programme for children aged 2 to 17 years.

Children in this age bracket can now avail of the free flu vaccine from participating GP practices and pharmacies. As well as this, some of these providers will be offering the vaccine in some primary schools. 

Commenting on the vaccine programme, Dr. Ruth McDermott, a Consultant in Public Health Medicine for the HSE said: "Flu is a serious illness that can be dangerous in children. We know that children are twice as likely as adults to catch flu and can spread flu easily to other children.

"Young children, in particular, are more likely than adults to be very sick from flu. Vaccinating children protects them – and their siblings, parents, grandparents and those who are vulnerable."

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For parents with children who are anxious about injections, they can be rest assured that the nasal vaccine is a quick and painless spray. Dr Ruth McDermott said: "Children are given the nasal vaccine by spraying the vaccine once into each nostril. It is a quick and painless spray. Children can breathe normally and many of them say that it tickles when being given.

"Getting the nasal spray flu vaccine is a safe, quick, pain free and effective way to protect children from flu this winter. We are encouraging parents to talk to a participating GP or pharmacy about getting your child vaccinated for free."

Parents are encouraged to have their children vaccinated this flu season, as the HSE states: "While most children who catch flu have mild symptoms, flu can sometimes lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis in some children. Children, especially young children, are also more likely than adults to get severe complications of flu."