A GP with paediatric expertise reassures parents that mild illnesses like colds typically do not warrant cancelling children’s flu shots, with more caution advised for fever and blocked noses.
Parents whose children develop a mild illness before a flu vaccination appointment do not always need to cancel, according to advice from a GP with paediatric training. Dr Shruti Nathwani, who posts as @thechildrensmedic, said a simple cold is not usually a reason to miss the nasal spray, although a fever or a badly blocked nose may mean the appointment should be put back or an injection offered instead.
The seasonal flu vaccine for children is designed to reduce the risk of flu and its complications, and the NHS recommends it each year for children aged two to five, as well as school-aged children and those with certain health conditions. The vaccine is usually given as a quick nasal spray, though some younger children, particularly those aged six to 23 months, are offered an injection because trials in infants found an unexpected link with wheezing and higher hospital admission rates.
Nathwani also set out a few points that parents may not realise about the nasal spray. It is a live vaccine, but the weakened virus is not the same as catching flu and is intended to work in the cooler environment of the nose, where it prompts an immune response. She added that asthma does not automatically rule out the spray, but recent wheezing, increased reliever inhaler use or some cases of severe asthma may make it unsuitable.
Official UK guidance says the spray is not appropriate for every child, including those under two, children with a history of serious allergic reaction to a previous dose or certain ingredients, and some children with severely weakened immune systems. The government also says children who live with someone who is severely immunocompromised may need individual advice. Nathwani said a small number of children may have side effects such as a reduced appetite, runny nose, headache or tiredness, and that it is sensible to tell the vaccination team about allergies or close contact with someone who is very immunocompromised. Egg allergy is no longer considered a reason to avoid the spray, according to current UK guidance.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
