Australian flu data shows vaccines will protect kids best- Norfolk expert
Even previously healthy children can become seriously ill with flu, say the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH)
A local epidemiologist says new Australian data shows that vaccination is best way to protect children from flu.
Official data shows flu season has started "usually early", with rising rates of children being hospitalised with it.
Leading doctors are urging parents to get their children protected by flu, via nasal spray, with concerns around cases rising.
Even previously healthy children can become seriously ill with flu, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) said.
Data points to hospital activity already reaching levels that are not usually seen until December.
"There's still a lot of people who are unsure"
Professor Paul Hunter is from Norwich Medical School
He has this message for those who are worried about getting jabbed:
"The importance is for everyone to know what the benefits of getting vaccinated are and are able to advise people accordingly.
"If you're in doubt at all, discuss it with your friends, colleagues or their medical advisors who can tell you more.
"There is no doubt that vaccine uptake has been declining and it was even declining a little bit before the Covid pandemic, which has made it worse.
"There is clearly some people who will never be convinced no matter what, but there's still a lot of people who are unsure.
The RCPCH has created a new information sheet for parents about flu and the immunisation for children.
The fact sheet is designed to address common concerns and provide clear information for parents.