Flu Jab for Kids: NHS Rolls Out Free Vaccinations This Year
This year, the NHS is offering free flu vaccines to all two- and three-year-olds, every primary school child, and those in Year 7. The jab is usually a quick and painless nasal spray, making it simple for parents and kids alike.
Why Your Child Needs the Flu Vaccine Now
Dr Navin Kumta, Clinical Chair for NHS Kent and Medway CCG, stressed the importance of getting kids vaccinated. “Children can easily spread flu among friends and family,” he said. “Flu in kids can cause fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and extreme tiredness that lasts for days.”
He added, “Some kids can get dangerously high fevers without typical flu symptoms and may require hospital treatment. Serious complications include ear infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other lung diseases.”
How to Get Your Child Vaccinated
- Parents of two- and three-year-olds should have received a letter from their GP with vaccination details.
- If you haven’t heard from your GP, contact your surgery to book an appointment.
- Children born between 01/09/2016 and 31/08/2018 are eligible.
- Flu vaccine sessions will take place at schools this autumn for primary and Year 7 students.
- Children not attending school will be invited to local clinics.
- Wait for an invitation or consent form before booking.
Stopping Flu Helps Protect Everyone
“If all eligible kids get vaccinated, we can seriously cut flu spread in our communities,” Dr Kumta said. “This year it’s vital to protect vulnerable groups and reduce risks of catching flu and Covid-19 at the same time.”
Meanwhile, Clair Bell, Kent’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, urged residents: “Get your flu jab this year. It’s more important than ever to keep well, protect others, and ease pressure on local NHS services.”
