'Protect yourself and others': The flu symptoms in children you should look out for as cases more than treble
Positive cases of the flu were highest amongst children and young people 🤧
- Flu cases across Northern Ireland have more than trebled.
- Positive cases were highest amongst children and young people.
- Those who are eligible are being urged to get their vaccine ahead of the Christmas period.
Flu cases have risen sharply, with positive cases nearly doubling in the last week.
The latest data from the Public Health Agency shows that cases among adults and children have more than tripled in the last two weeks, rising from 273 to 484 last week and 954 this week.
Cases were highest in the 5 to 14 age group, with a 54.2% positivity rate.
Hospital admissions have also nearly doubled since last week, with 264 people now being treated in hospital for the flu.
The Health Minister has urged those who are eligible for the flu vaccine to come forward and get protected before the Christmas period.
Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “Vaccination offers the best defence against serious illness that we can catch more frequently in winter. Our Health and Social Care (HSC) services face 365-day pressure, but we know they are under more severe pressure during winter. This is partially due to an increase in seasonal illnesses, such as flu, Covid and RSV.
“Help us to help you, protect yourself and our vital services by getting vaccinated if you are eligible. It is not too late – get protected now.”
What are the symptoms of flu in children?
The signs and symptoms of flu in children are similar to those of adults.
They can include a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a hoarse voice, a cough or feeling tired. Additional symptoms can include a headache, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, tummy pain or feeling sick and being sick.
However, children can also experience pain in their ears, appear less active and be more susceptible to serious complications, including pneumonia.
Can children get the flu vaccine?
All children in Northern Ireland are eligible for the flu vaccine. Those aged six months to two years with underlying health conditions and those aged two years and above can get their jab from their GP. Children of primary and secondary school age will be offered their flu vaccine in school.
Rachel Spiers, Immunisation and Vaccination Programme Manager at the Public Health Agency, said: “Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and others, and we’re pleased that over 464,000 people have already come forward to take up the offer of the seasonal influenza vaccine.
"However, this year we are seeing influenza activity earlier than previous years, and given that it usually takes about two weeks for a vaccine to become fully effective, we are encouraging eligible people to take up the offer without delay.
“We should also take common-sense steps to reduce the spread of flu and other similar illnesses by exercising good respiratory and hand hygiene and staying away from others if we have symptoms.”
Cases of the flu are continuing to rise. You can find out more information about symptoms and how to access the flu jab at NI Direct.