Parents and carers of young kids aged between 2 and 5-year-old in Falkirk are being urged to get their child immunised against flu this winter.

Health bosses say particularly as immunity levels may be lower this year because of coronavirus, which could result in more people falling unwell with a cold or flu.

Flu vaccination clinics for this age group are now underway in Forth Valley and appointment letters have been sent out inviting them to come forward for the free flu nasal spray.

The spray is said to be a quick and painless way of delivering the flu vaccine to children and won’t give the child flu.

Fiona Coan, NHS Forth Valley’s Immunisation Team Manager, said: "Children aged between 2 and 5-years-old are eligible for the free flu vaccine and we have started inviting parents and carers to attend a vaccination appointment. It’s quick, painless and just feels like a tickle in their nose.

"Please do turn up at your appointment to get your 2 to 5-year-old immunised against flu to protect themselves and others this winter."

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Nicola Steedman, said: "Flu can be serious, even for healthy children and young people. That’s why we’re immunising all children aged 2 up to secondary school pupils in S6 against flu this year.

"With public health restrictions in place last year, everybody, including young children were not exposed to the flu virus and are likely to have lower immunity to flu than in previous years.

"I’d urge all parents and carers to take up the offer of getting the free flu vaccine for their child this year and help stop the spread of flu. The vaccine is safe and offers the best protection we have against flu."

For more information about the flu vaccine, visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/childflu