Flu protection to be offered to more children

Flu vaccines will start in the autumn, with children who have a long-term condition or are clinically vulnerable offered it at school or their GP practice.

A spokesperson for NHS South Yorkshire and the Children and Young Person’s Alliance, which brings together organisations across the region that support young people, including schools, hospitals, and primary care, said: “Children aged between school years reception and Year 11 will also be offered a nasal spray vaccine at school.

“Previously, only children aged up to school Year 7 were offered the vaccine. “This year, to protect more people, children in Years 8 to 11 will also be offered the vaccine.”

They added: “As families up and down South Yorkshire send their children back to school after the summer holidays, we know it’s usual for children to catch common viruses and bugs.

“Whether this is their first term or their fifth year, it’s vital for families to take some simple steps to reduce the spread of illnesses and keep children well.”

As the weather turns colder, circulating cold and flu viruses can make respiratory conditions worse.

Children who have asthma should take their asthma preventer inhaler regularly and their reliever should be available at school or in their school bag.

Dr Nicola Jay, consultant paediatrician of allergy at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Make sure to have age-appropriate paracetamol and/or children’s ibuprofen in your cupboard as we start the first term and those colder winter months.

“Winter virus season is approaching so it’s a good idea to stock up your medicine cupboard.

“As well as coughs and colds, tummy bugs can be common, too.

“If they’re sick, keep them at home to rest, away from classmates and keep them hydrated.”