22/08/2017
Parents in Fife are being urged to act now to reduce the risk of their children contracting Flu this winter.
Flu is very infectious and can be serious. Every year in Scotland, children are hospitalised for the treatment of flu or its complications. Even healthy children can become seriously ill from flu and can spread it to family, friends and others. The flu vaccine helps protect your child against flu and reduces the chance of them spreading the virus to others. The vaccine does not cause flu.
The flu vaccine is being offered to all primary school aged children in Fife, as well as children aged 2–5 years who are not yet in primary school. The flu vaccine will be offered as a simple nasal spray that’s quick to administer, easily absorbed, and pain free. An alternative form of the flu vaccine will be available for children who are unable to have the nasal spray.
Primary school children will be vaccinated at school. Now that the new school term has begun, parents should look out for, and return, the flu vaccine consent form to make sure their child can receive the free flu vaccine. The Fife schools vaccine programme will commence in October.
All children aged 2–5 years and not yet in primary school will be offered the vaccine between October and December. Parents will be sent a letter about contacting your GP practice to arrange an appointment for your child.
For further information on flu vaccination visit www.immunisationscotland.org.uk