About the flu vaccine

To consent to your child having the flu vaccination this winter, please complete a form via this link

Introduction

Flu is caused by viruses which spread easily when people cough or sneeze. It is very serious.

Anyone can get flu, but children catch and spread flu more easily. Children are at higher risk of serious harm. Serious illnesses can include bronchitis and pneumonia (lung infections) and ear infections. Some children get so ill they need to go into hospital.

 More information about flu is available from: Flu Vaccination - Public Health Wales

 NHS 111 Wales - Health A-Z : Flu (external site)

About the flu vaccine

It is very important for children to get the flu vaccine every year. Flu vaccines are quick, very safe and could protect your child from weeks of serious illness.

The nasal spray flu vaccination (Fluenz) is delivered in schools each year from September to December and is offered to all children from Reception to Year 11.

Most children and young people will get a nasal spray vaccine as this is the best flu vaccine for them. It is a fine mist sprayed up the nose and can be given from the age of two. It’s painless and safe, and children and young people are not usually upset after receiving a nasal spray flu vaccine.   

The nasal spray flu vaccine has traces of highly-purified porcine (pork) gelatine which is also used in many other medicines. A gelatine-free injectable flu vaccine is available in schools from September 2025.

Fact: In the 2023-2024 flu season 262,632 children in Wales had the flu vaccine

Fact: In the 2023-2024 flu season, over 460 children and young people in Wales went to A&E with flu, and 10 were admitted to intensive care