An NHS GP answers parents' questions about the flu vaccine

Every autumn, the flu jab sparks discussion on our Talk boards, with parents weighing up whether to book their child in or give it a miss. 

Some users are sceptical: “Not an anti-vaxxer… My kids are vaccinated otherwise. But there's just something about the yearly flu vaccine. Anyone else not letting their kids get it?” 

While others swear by the flu vaccinations both for their kids and themselves to ensure their households remain flu-free; “[...] I’ve had it every year for the last 14 years and rarely had a flu - and when I have it’s been relatively mild.”

To give parents peace of mind, we’ve spoken to Dr Oge Ilozue, an NHS GP and a clinical lead for vaccinations, to answer some common questions that parents have about the flu vaccine, why it matters and how to manage symptoms if you or your child catch flu. 

After all, having the right information about taking a new medication or vaccination can help you make an informed choice. So, here are some things you may have heard about the flu and Dr Oge’s replies. 

‘The flu isn’t serious for kids, we should let them catch it’

“I’ve seen lots of cases of flu in young children, ranging from mild symptoms such as earache and a cough to serious complications such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis,” shares Dr Oge. “Giving your child the free flu vaccine or nasal spray helps not only to protect them from serious illness, but family and friends too.”

She continues: “If your child is aged 2 – 3, you can book their nasal spray at your GP practice or local pharmacy. 

“If your child is in school, they will be offered the vaccine there and all you have to do is sign their consent form. The nasal spray is effective, safe and it’s quick, with no needles needed.”

‘The flu nasal spray or vaccine can make my child unwell’

Dr Oge shares: “The children's nasal spray or vaccine may cause mild side effects like a runny or blocked nose, headache, tiredness and some loss of appetite. 

“But these symptoms usually end within two days and are far less serious than the effects of catching flu.”

Protect your child through winter from flu

‘Flu is only dangerous to elderly people’

“Flu can be dangerous to older people, and that is why people aged 65 are also eligible for the flu vaccine”, confirms Dr Oge. “But, your friends, family, or contacts of any age could have long term health conditions, maybe without you knowing. 

“This could be diabetes, heart disease, asthma/lung conditions, kidney disease, cancer, or many other conditions that cause a weakened immune system.

“If someone has a long-term health condition, the flu virus can hit harder, last longer and lead to complications and hospitalisation.”

She adds: “Vaccinating your children against flu - and yourself if eligible - protects others too.

“Two to three year olds and school aged children are invited for a free flu vaccination, usually the nasal flu spray. Adults can get a free flu vaccine if you’re aged 65 or over, have certain long-term health conditions, are pregnant, live in a care home, are the main carer for an older or disabled person or live with someone with a weakened immune system.”

‘The flu vaccine is not halal’

“The flu vaccine, or jab, does not contain any pork ingredient or gelatine. Only the flu nasal spray for children includes porcine gelatine,” confirms Dr Oge. “The British Fatwa Council has permitted the use of the nasal spray in children. You can also ask your GP for an alternative flu vaccine for your child if you do not want them to have the nasal spray.”

‘You don’t need a flu jab every year’

Dr Oge explains: “You do need to have a flu jab every year if invited, as the viruses that cause flu can change every year. 

“This is why new vaccines are created every year to protect against these new strains. The vaccine you’re given usually provides protection for most strains of flu for that winter season only.”

Dr Oge answers common parent questions we see on our Talk boards

‘If your child does get flu, you might need to go to A&E’

“I know how worrying it is when your child is unwell, especially during the winter”, shares Dr Oge. “Most of the time, it is best to care for your child with flu at home, managed with health advice. 

“Last winter, we saw a sharp rise in children in north London visiting A&E with flu symptoms. Many of them didn’t need emergency treatment. And after a long, uncomfortable wait, parents were told to manage their child’s symptoms at home, with medicines available from their local pharmacy.

“If your child catches flu, make sure they get lots of rest, keep warm and drink water to stay hydrated (pee should be light yellow or clear). Give paracetamol or ibuprofen to your child if they're distressed or uncomfortable. Check the packaging to make sure the medicine is suitable for your child - ask a pharmacist or GP if unsure.

“Many GP practices also offer evening and weekend appointments if you need medical advice - or you can always call NHS 111.”

Dr Oge adds: “The flu vaccine or nasal spray is a free, easy way to protect your child from becoming seriously unwell.

“And if they do get flu, knowing where to turn first can mean faster support and avoiding long waits in a busy A&E.”

About the expert

Dr Oge Ilozue has been a GP for 13 years. She is a GP Partner and Trainer in north central London, as well as Senior Clinical Adviser to the NHS London vaccinations programme.

About the editor

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she creates content that’s designed to make life easier for parents. Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a PTA meeting, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking her two dogs up and down country lanes.