huffingtonpost - 6 days ago

I don’t know about you, but as the school term comes to a close, it feels like every child I know is – or has recently been – sick.High temperatures, flushed cheeks, rattling coughs, vomiting, stomach cramps – it’s been a lot. And it seems this is only the beginning, as new data from the UK’s Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows flu activity is continuing to increase amongst school-aged children.Data suggests we are seeing signs of an earlier flu season this winter. To add insult to injury, norovirus levels were fairly low and steady, but in recent weeks they’ve started to rise, too – with levels highest in the under-4s.Symptoms of norovirus typically include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs.While there isn’t a vaccine for preventing norovirus (sadly), there is a flu vaccine on offer via the NHS this winter.Who can get the flu vaccine?Children aged 2-3 years old, as well as school-age children (reception to year 11) and children with certain long-term health conditions are eligible for the free vaccine, often administered as a nasal spray. Schools have already been offering the flu vaccine to children whose parents have consented.If you missed the memo, it’s best to contact your child’s school to see if they’ll be adding any catch-up vaccination sessions.Parents of toddlers aged 2-3 will need to book in for the vaccine at their GP, if they haven’t already done so.Other eligible groups for the free flu jab include over-65s, pregnant people or those in a clinical risk group. If you’re not in these groups, you can usually pay for one privately at your nearest pharmacy. RSV is on the rise, tooUKHSA pointed out that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has also increased slightly in activity. However the good news is that Covid-19 rates seem to be dropping. Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said “it is likely that flu circulation will spread into other groups of the population over the coming weeks”, so it is “important that all eligible groups get vaccinated”.“The vaccine remains our best defence against severe illness and hospitalisation from flu,” he added.If you have symptoms of flu or Covid-19 – for example, a high temperature, cough and feeling tired or achy, it’s best to minimise contact with others, particularly with those who may be vulnerable.Dr Lopez Bernal said if you have to leave the house, it’s advised you wear a face mask to protect others.“Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of these illnesses, as can ensuring that indoor areas are well ventilated,” he added.And it’s important to note that if you use hand gel when out and about over half-term, it won’t kill norovirus germs – so your best bet is always to use soap and water. Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, urged anyone who comes down with norovirus symptoms – basically, diarrhoea and vomiting – to stay off work, school or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.“Don’t prepare food for others in that time either,” she added. Sending hope (and tissues) your way. Related...2 Million Children Are Unhappy At School – This Is WhyI m A Laundry Pro. This Is The Secret To Never Having To Iron Uniform AgainDon t Ask Your Kid How Was School Today? . Try This Instead

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