WITH winter fast approaching, local doctors are reminding parents to make sure that any at risk children receive their flu vaccination this winter.

The vaccination is available free to children aged two, three or four and to children in school year’s one and two.

Children within these age groups are more likely to become seriously ill if they develop flu.

Dr Carl Ellson, chief clinical officer for NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Flu is not just a cold, it can make little ones very poorly. Some children can even develop a very high fever or complications.

“Protecting children by getting them vaccinated can stop flu from spreading to other children they may come into contact with and to the rest of the family.”

Other groups of people who are deemed at risk of developing serious complications from flu, and who are urged to get vaccinated, are people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and people with long term health conditions, such as asthma and diabetes.

If you’re a parent looking to get your child vaccinated, arrange a free flu vaccination now by contacting your GP surgery or local pharmacy.