Parents and carers of children aged 2 to 5 are being encouraged to make sure their child gets the free flu vaccine this winter. All children aged 2 by the 31st August 2022 are eligible.

Given as a painless nasal spray, the vaccine not only helps protect children but can also help prevent them spreading the virus to more vulnerable family members and friends over the winter months.

Invitation appointment letters for 2 to 5-year-old pre-school children were sent to homes from September. Parents and carers whose children have missed their appointment, or have been given an appointment that’s not suitable, you can Drop into one of our Community Vaccination Clinics Monday to Sunday between 0830 and 7.00pm at: Falkirk Community Hospital, Stirling Health and Care Village and Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre or if prefer book another appointment by calling 0800 130 3120.

Fiona Coan, Service Manager at NHS Forth Valley said: “Flu can be serious, even for otherwise healthy children. That’s why all 2 to 5-year-olds and all school children are being offered the flu vaccine this winter. The flu virus is always changing, so your child needs to get the vaccine every year to make sure they have the best protection. The vaccine is a quick, painless, nasal spray, and will just feel like a tickle in their nose.”

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Nicola Steedman said: “The flu vaccine has been used in the national flu programme since 2014 and millions of doses have safely been given to children in the UK. The vaccine helps to prevent children from getting sick with flu and needing time off nursery or childcare and missing out on events over the festive period. It also helps to reduce the risk of children spreading flu to family and friends who are more vulnerable, which is especially important at this time of year when families are getting together more.

“I’d urge all parents and carers of eligible pre-school children who have not yet been vaccinated to get in touch with their local NHS Board and schedule an appointment.”

Children aged 2 to 5* not yet in school, and all primary and secondary school pupils are being offered the vaccine this year.”

For more information about the flu vaccine, visit nhsinform.scot/childflu