As children across Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull head back to school, healthcare leaders are reminding parents and carers to make sure their children are protected from serious illnesses ahead of winter.
Seasonal illnesses such as flu, COVID-19 and norovirus are expected to circulate more widely during colder months leading to missed school days, and there are simple steps that young people and their families can do to increase their protection.
Parents are encouraged to make sure their children are up to date with vaccinations, including the free flu nasal spray for those aged two to 16, and both flu and COVID-19 vaccines for children in clinical risk groups. It’s also important to check that children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles.
Good hygiene remains a simple and effective defence: regular handwashing with soap and warm water, using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, and staying home when unwell all help to stop the spread of infection. Families are also encouraged to stay active, eat well, and manage minor illnesses at home with advice from the NHS website or local pharmacists.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Interim Cluster Quality and Safety Lead for Black Country ICB and NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, said: “Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect children and those around them from serious illness.
“Regular handwashing with soap and warm water, using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, and staying home when unwell can significantly limit the spread of infections in schools and childcare settings.”
For further advice, please visit our self-care advice page.
