A mum is urging parents to get young children vaccinated against the flu.

Kent County Council launched a campaign to reach groups at the most risk of catching the virus last week including pregnant women, people over the age of 65 and two to four-year-olds.

Emma Allan, of Petunia Avenue, Minster, plans to take four-year-old son Thomas,for the flu nasal spray.

The 29-year-old said: “My husband normally has the vaccine through work but didn’t last year and was terribly ill with flu. I think it’s great that we can get Thomas protection as it takes the worry away. I’m not concerned about him having the vaccine as I’m confident that it’s safe but I think parents need to be made more aware of its availability for their children at that age.”

Statistics from last year show that across Swale 71% of people over 65 took up the chance of a free jab.

However, only 42% of expectant mothers, 35% of young children and just half of those with medical conditions had the vaccine when offered.

KCC public health consultant Faiza Khan said: “Flu can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse.”

For more information contact your GP or visit www.kent.gov.uk/Health.