As the colder months arrive, many families start fearing winter bugs, sniffles and time off school. While flu is sometimes thought of as just a bad cold, it can be much more serious – even for healthy children and young people. That’s why the flu vaccine in offered to eligible children and young people.
Why should children and young people get the vaccine?
The flu vaccine is the safest and easiest way to help protect your child against flu, it cannot give children flu. By having the vaccine, children are less likely to catch and spread flu to others who are at a greater risk, such as babies, grandparents, and people with long-term health conditions. It can also help parents and carers avoid having to take time off work, or miss other activities throughout the festive season, to look after sick children or become ill themselves.
Who is being offered the flu vaccine?
The vaccine is being offered to children and young people in primary and secondary school, and to children aged 2 to 5 years on 1 September 2026 (and not yet in school).
How is the vaccine given?
For most children, the flu vaccine is given as a small nasal spray up each nostril. It’s quick, simple and the safest and easiest way to help protect children against flu this winter. Most children will only need one dose. However, children under 9 years old that have a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu and have not had the flu vaccine previously, will need a second dose to build up their immunity.
Find out what to expect on vaccination day for those aged 2-5 years old and those in school.
For children who cannot have the nasal spray vaccine, an alternative injectable vaccine may be available. If you are unsure whether your child should receive the vaccine, or if they have specific health needs, you can speak to your local vaccination team, GP practice or another health professional for advice.
How serious is flu?
Flu can make children feel very unwell. Symptoms can last up to seven days and may include a stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, fever, chills, aching muscles and joints, headaches and extreme tiredness. In some cases, flu can lead to serious complications. These can include bronchitis, pneumonia, middle-ear infection, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In the worst cases, flu can lead to disability and can be life threatening.
Last winter, more than 1,700 children in Scotland spent time in hospital with flu. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness and can help children avoid missing nursery, school and the activities they enjoy throughout winter.
Children who had the flu vaccine last year were 54% less likely to be hospitalised with flu compared to children who did not have the flu vaccine.
Is the vaccine safe?
All medicines (including vaccines) are tested for safety and efficacy before they’re allowed to be used. Once they’re in use, the safety and effectiveness of vaccines continues to be carefully monitored.
How will children and young people be invited?
Parents and carers of children aged 2 to 5 years (who aren’t at school yet) will receive a letter from NHS Scotland. This will have details of an appointment or a phone number to call to arrange an appointment.
All primary and secondary school pupils will be offered the vaccine in school. Children will be sent home with a letter, leaflet and consent form. Parents are asked to complete the consent form and send it back to school, regardless of whether they are choosing to accept the vaccine or not.
The flu vaccine is a simple choice that can make a big difference. It helps protect children and young people from flu, supports their learning and wellbeing through the winter, and helps protect those around them.
To find out more about the child flu vaccine, visit nhsinform.scot/childflu
