Protect your little ones from flu this Halloween

Parents are being urged to give their children extra protection this spooky season with a free flu vaccination.

Health chiefs in the North East and North Cumbria warn that flu can leave young children seriously unwell putting a stop to more than their trick-or-treating plans.

Dr Neil O’Brien, GP and chief medical officer, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "While Halloween is about make-believe scares, flu can give families a real fright and can leave some children seriously unwell.

"We all want our little ones to enjoy Halloween rather than being tucked up in bed feeling poorly.

“The flu vaccine nasal spray is quick, painless and helps protect children against serious illness - as well as protecting the wider family too including grandparents and other relatives who could be more vulnerable to the virus."

Appointments are now available at participating community pharmacies and GP practices, for all two and three-year-olds, giving families time to protect their little ones before winter.

"As busy parents we all have enough on our to-do lists, added Dr O'Brien.

"With bonfire night and Christmas still to come, getting children protected now means one less thing on the winter checklist and can help stop them missing out on all the fun through illness."

All children aged two or three on 31 August 2026 are eligible for the free vaccine.

Children from reception to Year 11 are being offered a free flu vaccine through their local school immunisation service. From 1 December, children who have not yet been vaccinated will be able to get an appointment at a participating community pharmacy.

Parents and carers can book a free pharmacy flu vaccination on the NHS website, by calling 119 free of charge or contacting a participating community pharmacy directly.