PARENTS have been urged to take simple steps to protect their families as winter illness levels continue to rise in Northern Ireland.
Flu and other respiratory illnesses are expected to increase in the coming weeks while “high numbers” of scarlet fever and Strep A continue to be reported, the Public Health Agency has said.
As well as good hand and respiratory hygiene, the key advice is for those eligible for free Covid-19 and flu jabs to take them without delay.
Parents of pre-school and school-aged children have also been particularly encouraged to get them vaccinated against flu.
Dr Joanne McClean, PHA Director of Public Health, explained that on “rare occasions” Strep A infections could become more serious, making children more vulnerable if they develop other viral infections like the flu.
“The flu vaccine reduces the risk of having flu and group A Strep infections at the same time,” Dr McClean said.
“The PHA strongly recommends children who are eligible get the flu vaccine – it’s the best way to protect them from serious illness.”
With an “excellent safety record,” she said the flu vaccine for children includes nasal spray and has been given to millions in the UK and worldwide.
Children who are unwell with a fever should stay at home from school or nursery until the fever has resolved.
Adults with respiratory infection symptoms and a high temperature should also stay home, avoid contact with others and visiting health and social care settings.
Resting, drinking and plenty of fluids will ease symptoms alongside taking paracetamol or ibubrofen.
Those concerned about their symptoms or they are getting worse should contact their GPS, or in an emergency dial 999.
Further information is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/flu
