Comment: Primary schoolchildren labelled “super-spreaders” ahead of potential flu outbreak

This Winter every child of primary school age will be offered a flu vaccination, NHS England has announced.

A reported 25 million people are to be offered free vaccines, including more than half a million schoolchildren aged between 10 and 11.

Furthermore, NHS England are branding their 2019 anti-flu campaign as their biggest yet, with children seen as “super-spreaders” of the infection.

Some commentators have gone as far to say that a potential no-deal Brexit might risk important medicines arriving in the UK. However, fears around the accessibility of flu jabs have since been quashed with most of the vaccines expected to arrive in the UK before 31 October.

Keep warm, keep well, this Winter

Fletcher’s Trainee Solicitor, Liam Bestwick is no stranger to reporting on flu’s impact on communities. Last Winter, Liam discussed the importance of ensuring that there was enough staffing in place in GP surgeries and hospitals across the country.

As the NHS prepares for another turbulent Winter head, Liam’s message this year is geared towards the importance of flu vaccine access.

It is extremely positive to see such important action taken in anticipation of another flu outbreak. We are all aware of the risk that young children pose in terms of spreading illness. Hopefully, preventing Flu in this high-risk group should reduce the numbers affected across all other age groups, which in turn will reduce the strain on our NHS Services. “However, it is important that this does not deter other high risk groups from taking action themselves. They should speak to their doctor about the vaccine and take advice on whether it is suitable for them.

How effective is the flu vaccine?

According to NHS England, the Flu vaccine is ‘the best protection against an unpredictable virus.’ Also, the NHS also stress that the flu is never a pleasant experience with children, pregnant women and the elderly most at risk.

In addition, they back their campaign with statistics. ‘Studies have shown that the flu vaccine will help prevent you getting the flu. It will not stop all flu viruses and the level of protection may vary, so it’s not a 100% guarantee that you’ll be flu-free.’

To book your flu jab, you can do this through your nearest pharmacy including, Lloyds Pharmacy and Tesco. Or, from select Boots or Superdrug stores.

For more advice on flu symptoms and recovery, visit NHS England.