Reminder to return flu consent forms asap 

NHS Western Isles is reminding parents and carers of school children across the Western Isles to ensure they sign and return consent forms for the flu immunisation as soon as possible. 

Pupils in the Nicolson Institute in Stornoway are been urged to return forms as soon as possible to the box in the office.  Secondary school pupils can self-consent, though they are encouraged to speak to a parent or carer first.  

Consent packs have been sent home in children’s schoolbags, and NHS Western Isles is urging parents and carers to ensure these are returned as soon as possible. School vaccinations are due to begin from the week beginning September 12.   

All primary and secondary school pupils are eligible for the vaccine, which is given in schools as a painless nasal spray (to the majority of children).   

Getting children vaccinated against flu reduces the chances of them missing class time and other activities due to illness and helps prevent them passing the illness to vulnerable family members.  

For more information about the flu vaccine, visit www.nhsinform.scot/childflu or call 0800 030 8013.