TheUK Health Security Agency(UKHSA) has delivered an important message to parents of schoolchildren nationwide. It arrives amid growing concerns about an early increase in flu cases and its potential to cause a 'long and drawn out' winter for the NHS.
The government agency released a brief video of Dr Kostas Karampatsas, a paediatric infectious diseases consultant at St George's Hospital in London. In the clip, shared to X on Sunday, he said: "If your child’s school is offering a flu vaccine this winter, please make sure you sign the consent form. It will help protect your child and your loved ones."
The UKHSA itself also echoed Dr Karampatsas' sentiments, adding: "Received a consent form from your child’s school for their free NHS nasal flu vaccine? Don’t forget to sign it, pack it and hand it back to your child’s school."
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As of November 4, the UKHSA reportedthat England's influenza positivity increased with 'a weekly average positivity rate of 10.9% compared with 8.2% in the previous week'. Rates were highest among those aged between five and 14 years old.
Although levels are still generally low overall, health specialists indicate that the flu season has begun unusually early. This also comes amid warning signs from the Asia-Pacific region, where Japan has already declared a flu epidemic, resulting in the closure of many schools.
On October 30, Dr Alex Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, explained: "We’re seeing an unusually early start to the flu season this year, with the latest data showing a sharp increase among children but also increases in other age groups, with the virus now starting to spread more widely in the community.
"If you’re eligible for a vaccine it is because you are at greater risk of severe illness – every year we see many thousands end up in hospital and far too many deaths from flu. It’s crucial that everyone eligible books their appointment as soon as possible. The vaccine is our best defence."
Every autumn or early winter, the NHS providesflu vaccines to people at greater risk of serious health problems. Aprevious update from UKHSA mentioned that six primary groups could begin booking their flu immunisations from September 1 this year, with another six groups becoming eligible from October 1.
From September 1, this included:
And from October 1, this encompassed:
Vaccinations are available at GP surgeries, some pharmacies, maternity clinics, and care homes. Health and social care workers may be eligible to receive vaccinations at their workplace.
Dr Allen continued: "Parents should return school consent forms or arrange GP appointments for two to three-year-olds. The nasal spray vaccine can help stop your child from getting very unwell and reduce the risk of passing flu to vulnerable family members.
"Anyone with flu or COVID-19 symptoms – including high temperature, cough, and feeling tired or achy – should minimise contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you need to go out with symptoms, consider wearing a face covering, wash hands regularly and ensure indoor spaces are well ventilated."
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