Nasal Flu Vaccination for Children
Protect your child this winter with the free NHS nasal flu vaccine.
Flu is not just a bad cold. It can make children very unwell and can lead to complications such as chest infections, ear infections, dehydration, and hospital admission. Children also spread flu easily to family members and friends.
The nasal flu vaccine is a quick, painless spray given into your child’s nose. It does not involve an injection and is offered free to eligible children through the NHS.
Why should my child have the flu vaccine?
✅ Helps protect your child from flu and its complications
✅ Reduces the risk of missing school or nursery due to illness
✅ Helps prevent the spread of flu to brothers, sisters, parents and grandparents
✅ Protects vulnerable family members who may be at greater risk of severe illness
✅ Reduces the likelihood of needing GP appointments, medicines or hospital treatment
Who is eligible for the NHS nasal flu vaccine?
The nasal flu vaccine is routinely offered free on the NHS to:
- Children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August before the flu season.
- All children in primary school.
- Eligible children in secondary school (according to the annual NHS vaccination programme).
- Children aged 6 months to under 18 years with certain long-term health conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Neurological conditions
- Weakened immune systems
Some children who cannot have the nasal spray vaccine for medical reasons may be offered a flu injection instead.
Is the nasal spray safe?
Yes. The nasal flu vaccine has an excellent safety record and has been given safely to millions of children. It is quick, effective and generally well tolerated.
Some children may experience mild side effects, such as:
- A runny or blocked nose
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Reduced appetite
These symptoms are usually mild and settle within a few days.
When should my child not have the vaccine?
Please let us know before the appointment if your child:
- Is feeling significantly unwell or has a high temperature on the day.
- Has a severely weakened immune system.
- Has had a serious allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or one of its ingredients.
- Has severe wheezing or is currently experiencing an asthma flare-up.
Our clinical team will be happy to discuss the most appropriate vaccination option for your child.
Help Protect Your Family This Winter
By having the nasal flu vaccine, your child is helping to protect not only themselves but also their family, friends and the wider community.
If your child is eligible, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer of vaccination. Please contact the surgery if you have any questions or would like further information.
Follow this link to show the Vaccine Patient Information Leaflet given to Children