A warning has been issued to parents in the north west to keep their poorly children off school and nursery.
With most youngsters returning from the Christmas break this week, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is concerned there could be a further rise in winter illnesses that are already circulating at high levels.
A rise in cases of flu and coronavirus is likely to continue to increase in coming weeks and high numbers of scarlet fever, which is caused by group A streptococcus, otherwise known as Strep A, continue to be reported.
Read more: Public told to use face masks and stay at home when unwell as NHS battles wave of illnesses
Prof Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at UKHSA, said: “It’s important to minimise the spread of infection in schools and other education and childcare settings as much as possible. If your child is unwell and has a fever, they should stay home from school or nursery until they feel better and the fever has resolved.
“Helping children to learn about the importance of good hand hygiene is also key, so practice regular handwashing at home with soap and warm water. Catching coughs and sneezes in tissues then binning them is another simple way to help stop illness from spreading.
“ Adults should also try to stay home when unwell and if you do have to go out, wear a face covering. When unwell don’t visit healthcare settings unless urgent, or visit vulnerable people.
“Remember that flu vaccination is still available for all eligible groups and is the best protection against the virus. We have seen good uptake in older age groups but vaccination among young children remains low. Flu can be very unpleasant and in some cases can lead to more serious illness. Getting your child vaccinated protects them and others they come into contact with, and it’s still not too late.”
Dr Merav Kliner, UKHSA north west deputy director, said: “As we see more cases of flu across the north west, we can all play a part reducing infections spreading by following simple measures. It is important to remember that catching flu or other infections for more vulnerable other people can be far more serious.
“Taking sensible measures to stop bugs spreading is something we all can and should do. These include, good hygiene, taking up vaccinations when offered and not mixing with vulnerable other people when you are poorly yourself.”
Children eligible for the flu vaccine include:
- Children aged 2 and 3 on August 31, 2022
- All primary school-aged children
- Some secondary school-aged children
Most children are given the flu vaccine as a nasal spray. Only if it's not suitable for them will they be given an injection instead.
Youngsters aged between six months and two years who have a long-term health condition that makes them at higher risk from flu, will also be given the injection instead of the nasal spray. This is because the nasal spray is not licensed for children under two.
You can find out more about the vaccine here.
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