Did you know that if you are 16 years old or under and in school, you can get your free flu vaccination this year—and it’s a nasal spray, not a jab.
That means no needles, just a quick and easy spray up your nose.
If you are in a school for young people with additional needs, you can have the free flu vaccination up to the age of 17!
Winter is coming, and with it, the flu season. Getting your flu vaccination doesn’t just keep you safe. It also helps protect your family, friends, and anyone around you.
Ask your parent or carer to sign the vaccination consent form to have the free nasal spray at school. Please complete the online flu vaccination consent form at least seven working days before your school’s flu vaccination clinic.
Why should I have the flu vaccination?
The flu can spread easily, especially when everyone is indoors more during the colder months. By getting the vaccination, you’re stopping the flu from reaching the people you care about. This is super important if you have grandparents, younger siblings, or anyone in your family who might get very sick from the flu.
What if I missed my school flu clinic?
If you missed your school’s flu vaccination day, don’t worry! You can still get the vaccination. Visit the school immunisation webpage and click on the online form. Fill out your details and the team will contact you to book an appointment which will be on a choice of dates and at various locations.
Can I get the COVID-19 vaccination too?
If you have an underlying health condition, you might also be able to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Check if you’re eligible by visiting the COVID-19 information page on the Dorset HealthCare website.
Can I have the vaccination if I am home educated?
Yes! If you are up to the age of 16, your parent or carer will have been sent an email to book. If you have missed this invite, no problem, visit the school immunisation webpage to find out how to book your appointment. When you click on the link to book, there should be a choice of dates and local places where you can have the vaccination.
Advice for young carers
If you are an unpaid carer, you will be eligible for a flu vaccination regardless of your age.
Make sure you are registered as a carer with your general practice surgery. If you are unsure, speak to your general practice surgery about this. Unpaid carers are not eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination this year, unless they meet any of the other criteria for having the COVID-19 vaccination. You can read more about it on this blog Winter vaccinations – what can I have and how do I book? – Stay Well Dorset.
Vaccinations don’t stop at flu
The flu vaccination isn’t the only one available for young people. Make sure you know all the vaccinations you can get to stay healthy and protect the people you care about, on the school immunisation webpage on Dorset HealthCare’s website.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and keep your family protected this winter!
For more information about flu vaccinations for younger children, visit the Flu Fighters webpage which has child friendly videos explaining the flu vaccination.
Blog post by Natalie Westmacott: Nurse and lead for the teams give flu vaccinations in schools
Also read, Why getting your child’s flu vaccination is a game changer – Stay Well Dorset
