In Scotland, the flu vaccine is offered to all children aged 2 to 5 years and children aged 6 months 2 years at higher risk of flu.

Children aged 2 to 5 years must be aged 2 years and over on 1 September 2023 and not yet in school.

Children in this group who are already in primary school will be offered the vaccine there.

If a child is between 6 months and 2 years old with a specific health condition, health boards will also offer them the vaccine.

Letters are sent to parents and carers in the post, inviting eligible children. 

Learn more about the flu vaccine for preschool children who are eligible on NHS inform (external website).

Where preschool children aged 2 to 5 years will receive the vaccine

Preschool children will either get the vaccine at:

  • a local flu clinic
  • their GP surgery
  • nursery

How the vaccine is given

Children aged 2 to 5 years will receive a painless, nasal (nose) spray, unless there is a specific reason for them to have the injectable vaccine.

Children aged between 6 months and 2 years with an eligible health condition will receive the injectable vaccine.

Digital resources 

The resources available for this age group include:

  • leaflets for parents and carers
  • posters for nurseries
  • briefing for nursery staff
  • social media assets for nurseries

View the digital resources for preschool children.

Further information

For further information, please see the current childhood and school flu CMO (2023/24) letter (external website).

 

 

Last updated: 04 August 2023
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