THE NHS is sending thousands of invitations to parents of toddlers in the Midlands to get the flu vaccination, ahead of what the health service says could be one of its most challenging winters ever.
In 2020/21 just 56.7% of toddlers received a flu vaccination in the Midlands and now it is more vital than ever that all children take up the offer of the free vaccine.
Parents of two and three-year-olds are being urged to book an appointment with their GP practice to protect their child this winter and help stop the spread of the virus in the community.
Dr Nigel Sturrock, the regional medical director of NHS England and NHS Improvement in the Midlands, said: “I would urge everyone to book an appointment for their child with their GP practice as soon as possible.
“For the first time we will have COVID-19 and flu co-circulating.
“Not many people got flu last year because of COVID-19 restrictions, so there isn’t much natural immunity in our communities as usual.
“The flu has a serious impact on the health of thousands of people every winter, and getting your child vaccinated will protect them, and help to stop the spread of the virus to your most vulnerable family members and loved ones.”
Flu symptoms can appear very quickly and include a high temperature about 38C, an aching body,
feeling exhausted, sore throat and runny nose and loss of appetite.
Anyone eligible can get their jab through their GP or by going to a community pharmacist.
