Lanarkshire children to be offered flu jag

Under the scheme, all children who are two or three years old, will be eligible for the vaccine.

Parents and carers of eligible two and three year old children will receive a letter advising them to contact their GP practice to make the arrangements for flu vaccination for their child.

Dr David Cromie said: “Flu can be serious. Even healthy children can become seriously ill from flu and it can spread to others. Two and three year old children are one of the groups most vulnerable to flu as they are unlikely to have built-up any protection from previous infections. Immunising these children also reduces the chances of spreading an infection to younger children and adults.This immunisation comes in the form of a nasal spray. It is safe, quick and painless and has been used in a number of other countries for many years. Some children who have an underlying medical condition may be offered an alternative injectable form.”

As part of a pilot project, children in some primary schools across the area will also be offered the chance to take part in the immunisation programme.