Ben, aged 6, receiving his flu vaccine
Children and young people aged between 2 and 17 years (inclusive) can get the flu vaccine for free. Most children and young people ages 2-17 years will receive the nasal flu vaccine.
The flu vaccine helps to protect people against flu. Most people who get the flu have mild symptoms; but children and young people with chronic health conditions are at risk of serious complications from flu. In some, flu can lead to serious problems such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis).
If your child has been told they cannot have the nasal flu vaccine, talk to your GP or pharmacist about them getting the vaccine as an injection.
If your child is under 2 years and at risk of complications from flu, they can get a different type of flu vaccine by injection instead of the nasal spray.
Most children and young people only need 1 dose of the vaccine each flu season. Some children aged 2 to 8 years with chronic health conditions may need 2 doses if they have never had the flu vaccine before. Your GP or pharmacist will know if they need 2 doses. The doses are given 4 weeks apart.
Mercer's Medical Centre is part of Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Coláiste Ríoga na Máinleá in Éirinn