PARENTS in Worcestershire are being urged to protect their children against flu by taking advantage of a free vaccination.

NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is urging parents of children between the ages of two and seven to make sure their child has their flu nasal vaccination.

The nasal spray vaccination is available free on the NHS and is described as 'quick, effective and painless'.

It is available to children aged two, three and four years old, as well as those in school years one and two.

Dr Carl Ellson, chief clinical officer at NHS South Worcestershire CCG said: “Flu can be a very unpleasant illness in children.

"They can suffer from symptoms including fever, chills and aching muscles. Some children may develop complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia and painful middle ear infection which may need hospital treatment.

“We know that children easily spread germs through bad hygiene, such as sneezing and not washing their hands properly.

"Vaccinating your child will not only protect them but also help to reduce the chance of flu spreading to others, especially amongst the vulnerable, such as babies, older people, pregnant women and people with serious long term illnesses.”

If you want more information about when and how your child will be vaccinated against flu, talk to your GP or practice nurse.

For more information about vaccines and the alternatives that may be available, visit www.gov.uk and www.nhs.uk/staywell