Derbyshire mum urges parents to vaccinate children against flu to protect vulnerable children like her son

A Derbyshire mum is calling on parents to make sure their children get the flu vaccine this winter, after her son Finley endured a terrifying battle with respiratory illness.

Jess Lynam’s son, Finley, was born prematurely, weighing 4lb 6oz, and faced severe complications, including a respiratory infection that led to intubation, a pneumothorax, and an 11-minute cardiac arrest.

He now lives with tracheomalacia, which means his windpipe sometimes collapses while breathing. He also has asthma, meaning even minor illnesses can result in hospital admissions and intensive treatment.

Finley is now 4 years old, and needs daily medication to prevent asthma attacks.

“When Finley gets even slightly unwell with a respiratory infection, his body struggles,” his mum explained.

“He usually needs hospital admission, nebulisers, steroids and oxygen. The flu would make him extremely poorly, and I’ll do anything to avoid that.

“A quick spray up the nose is such a small action that could prevent him needing life-saving treatment.”

Children are eligible for a free flu vaccine to help protect themselves and those around them. The vaccine, given as a quick nasal spray, is offered to all primary school-aged children and some secondary school pupils, as well as younger children through GP practices.

Vaccinating children not only reduces their risk of serious illness but also helps stop the spread of flu to more vulnerable people, such as babies, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions like Finley.

Jess said: “It’s just as important for the children in Finley’s class to be vaccinated, to reduce the risk of illness being passed on to him.

“The possible side effects of the vaccine are minuscule compared to the catastrophic effects that catching the flu would have on him.

“There are enough winter viruses for us parents to worry about, a simple nasal spray can protect your child, and mine, against at least one of them, so I really encourage you to get it done!”

Finley had his flu vaccine in October, and Jess, who was pregnant at the time, made sure to have her vaccines to protect Finley’s newborn sister.

Jess said, “we’re doing everything we can for Finley and his baby sister, please do the same for your family and ours.”

Maternal flu vaccination is offered free during pregnancy and is vital because it helps protect both mum and baby. When a pregnant person has the flu vaccine, the immunity is passed on to the baby, giving them protection during the first few months of life, before they are old enough to be vaccinated themselves. This early protection is especially important as flu can be very serious for newborns.

Pregnant women can get the flu vaccine through their GP, midwife, or local pharmacy. It’s a quick and safe way to reduce the risk of complications and keep families healthy over winter.