This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
All Island primary schools have been contacted, and parents will have, or will soon, receive information packs about the vaccination process, with permission forms for them to complete. Permission forms must be returned to the school to ensure that children are given the vaccination.
Via a nasal spray
Pupils will receive their vaccination via a nasal spray. This has a higher proven rate of success for children than the traditional injection, and is received much more comfortably.
The programme aims to visit each of the Islands’ 42 primary schools throughout October and November (vaccinations will not be administered in schools during half term).
Richard Buxton, Boots, said:
“We know that children can be carriers of flu. They often travel from place to place, potentially coming into contact with others who may be at increased or significant risk of health complications, should they catch flu. By vaccinating children up to the age of seven years old we’re not only protecting the children themselves, but it will help to mitigate the spread of the disease and protect the most vulnerable within our community.”
Councillor Jonathan Bacon, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council and Executive Member for Children’s Services, said:
“This is an extensive project, endeavouring to vaccinate up to 2,500 pupils across the Island and I am really pleased that we are able to offer this service to families through our primary schools. By protecting young children, we are protecting others in their families and wider networks too, from coming into contact with flu over the winter. I would like to urge parents to return their consent forms to their child’s school, without delay.”
Councillor Phil Jordan, Executive Member with responsibility for public health, said:
“This coordinated approach ensures that we can target a significant audience effectively, promoting positive health and protection messages with children and families Island-wide. It’s also a great example of partnership working and I’d like to thank partners in the NHS, throughout education and Boots, for their work to protect Island children this winter.”
National flu campaign
The national flu campaign is being launched this week. Vaccinations can be sought through the family GP by appointment, for:
- children aged 2-4 years
- pregnant women
- people with underlying health conditions
- those over the age of 65.
Community pharmacies across the Island are also offering vaccinations to all eligible adults as mentioned above.
People working within the council and NHS, who have regular contact with the community, may also receive a flu vaccination, via their Occupational Health provider. Others who work for residential and nursing care homes and domiciliary care agencies are also encouraged to get vaccinated and should speak to their employer about arrangements for this.
You can find out more about flu and vaccination online
Image: stevendepolo under CC BY 2.0
