Most children and young people will get their flu vaccine as a painless nasal spray as this is the best flu vaccine for them. It is a fine mist that is sprayed up the nose from the tip of each nostril and can be given from the age of two. Most children are not upset after receiving a flu nasal spray.
If your child misses their flu vaccine, speak to their school nurse, health visitor, GP or practice nurse about getting the vaccine.
The nasal spray vaccine can’t be given to anyone who is:
The nasal spray vaccine can’t be given to anyone who has:
Most children and young people who can’t have the nasal spray vaccine can have a flu vaccine injection instead, from their GP surgery.
Children and young people with asthma who need regular oral steroids or have needed intensive-care treatment for their asthma in the past, should be referred to a specialist for advice about receiving the nasal spray vaccine. They may need a flu vaccine injection instead.
If your child is having a cochlear implant in the week before their nasal spray vaccination appointment or due to have the vaccination in the two weeks after their implant speak to your health visitor, school nurse, GP or practice nurse for more advice.
A cold or other minor illness is not a reason to delay a flu vaccination.
If your child is unwell with a high temperature it is best to delay their vaccination until they are feeling better. Remember to follow the latest advice if your child has any COVID-19 symptoms: gov.wales/coronavirus
If your child cannot avoid contact with someone who has severely weakened immunity, such as someone who has recently had a bone marrow transplant, you should discuss this with your health visitor, school nurse, GP or practice nurse before your child has the nasal spray vaccine. They may decide to offer your child a flu vaccine injection instead.