Information received from the PHA to schools this week tells us that N.Ireland is experiencing an early start to the flu season, and that a new strain of flu is circulating. Reassuringly, recent data shows that the current vaccine continues to offer meaningful protection to children against being hospitalised with flu.
Remember:
- The flu is not just a bad cold.
- Healthy children do need a vaccine: Flu vaccine is vital for most children, not just those with long term conditions. Flu spreads more easily in winter beacuse children spend more time indoors.
- It's not too late to get vaccinated.
To stay well this winter, the PHA advise that:
- If children are unwell they should stay off school. The attached infographic gives information on when children should be absent.
- Wash hands regularly throughout the day.
- Remember to Catch it. Bin it. Kill it. Children are encourage to use tissues when coughing or sneezing and then to bin the tissue.
- Teach children how to stop infection spreading.
Thank you for helping everyone stay healthy this winter.
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