Dear Parent/ Carer

Flu Vaccination Programme

We are offering your child (Reception to Year 11) a free flu vaccine at school this autumn.

Please complete the consent form as soon as possible:

https://imms.sirona-cic.org.uk/flu/2024/consent?v=3

Flu can be an unpleasant illness and some people can get very unwell; some children even end up in hospital because of flu.

Why get the vaccine?

The flu vaccine helps protect your child and your family from getting flu, reduces the spread of the virus in winter, and keeps them in school learning.

How is the vaccine given?

The flu vaccine is usually given using a quick and easy nasal spray, this is the best flu vaccine for children. If your child cannot have the nasal spray due to the porcine gelatine content or for medical reasons, you can consent for your child to have an injection instead. If we cannot offer the injection at your child’s school, you will be able to book a clinic appointment.

Are there any side effects?

Most children do not have any side effects after the vaccine; however some might get a blocked or runny nose, lose their appetite, feel tired or get a headache, this will not last long.

Important deadlines:

• The consent system closes 2 working days before the vaccination session at school.
• If you complete your form after the deadline we may not be able to see your child at the school session

No internet access?

If you can’t access the internet, ask your child’s school for a paper consent form, or call us for help on 0300 1245515.

What if I do not want my child to receive the vaccine?

Please complete the form to let us know

Your child’s school will tell you the date of the vaccination session.

What if my child misses the session?

Catch-up clinics will be available for children who miss the school session. Your child’s school will send information about these clinics after the school session.

Want to learn more?

Flu vaccination for children: leaflets and posters – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Questions?

Contact the School Immunisation Team: 0300 124 5515 or email [email protected]

Yours faithfully,

Karen Evans

Head of Specialist Services for Children and Sirona Integrated Immunisation Services