Growing numbers of parents are having their young children vaccinated against flu – but the numbers need to increase, according to public health officials.
Almost two months since the campaign to encourage at-risk people to take up their free vaccination began, Public Health England says there has been a 4.2% rise in the number of pregnant women getting vaccinated, an increase of 2.2% increase in over 65s, and a 1.8% for at-risk under 65s.
Figures also show that by the end of October, 17.3% of 2-year-olds and 18.7% of 3-year-olds received the nasal flu vaccination, while 14.1% of 4-year-olds, who were offered it for the first time this year, have taken up the offer.
Chief medical officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies, said: “Flu can be really nasty for toddlers, leading to time off nursery which has a big impact on mums and dads and sometimes even a stay in hospital.
“They also spread the virus easily and often pass flu to grandparents and other relatives who can become very ill, fast.
“Giving 2, 3 and 4-year-olds the free nasal spray really is in everyone’s interests if you want to help avoid a miserable winter for all the family.”
Dr Richard Pebody, head of seasonal flu surveillance at Public Health England, urged others who are entitled to the free jab to book an appointment with their GP.
“People with certain long-term health conditions are at much greater risk of becoming seriously unwell if they catch flu and sadly, many end up in hospital,” he said.
“The best way people can protect themselves from flu is to take up the offer of free vaccination from their GP as soon as it becomes available.
“It’s not too late to get vaccinated, and we urge anyone who is eligible but hasn’t yet received their free flu vaccination to contact their GP.”
Leave a Reply