When it comes to making decisions about your child’s health, hearing from other parents can make all the difference.
In this section, we’ve gathered real stories from families across Essex who chose to protect their children with the flu vaccine. Their experiences reflect the everyday concerns, questions, and relief that many parents feel — and show how small actions can make a big impact.
From parents of children with long-term health conditions to expectant mums and grandparents, these voices offer reassurance, honesty, and encouragement.
As a mum of two, I’ve seen how quickly winter bugs can knock kids off their feet – especially my youngest, who has asthma and has struggled with his breathing since birth. When he gets a cold, it’s not just a sniffle – it’s a real worry. So when the school offered the flu nasal spray, it was a no-brainer to protect him, and his older brother too.
I’ll be honest, I thought it might be an injection at first, and I was worried it would upset them. But the leaflet from the school’s immunisation team explained everything clearly. It reassured me, and the boys were thrilled with their stickers afterwards!
Getting them vaccinated felt like the right thing to do. It’s not just about protecting them, it’s about keeping life on track. When your child is ill, everything stops: sleep, work, school, peace of mind. For the sake of a quick ‘spritz’ up the nose, you can save your family a lot of stress.
To any parent who’s unsure, I’d say: is it worth the gamble? You wouldn’t put your child in a car without a seatbelt — so why leave them unprotected from something that could be serious?
We’ll definitely be doing it again this year.
Siobhan from Essex
I’m a dad to a three-year-old boy, and I believe it’s important to protect not just my child, but everyone else’s children and the wider community. I stay informed by reading trusted online sources of information and keeping up with the latest health advice.
I used to think flu was just a bad cold – until I had it myself and ended up in hospital. That experience changed everything. After that, I didn’t have any concerns about vaccinating my son, and I felt great knowing he was protected.
To any parent who’s unsure, I’d say: I had flu last year and it nearly took me out. I wouldn’t wish that on my child or yours. Please check the latest evidence – it really helps give peace of mind.
Getting the vaccine is very convenient, and I’ll definitely be vaccinating him again this year. It’s quick, it’s safe, and it costs nothing. Just do it.
Tom from Southend
I’m a grandmother to seven wonderful grandchildren. I’ve always encouraged my children to get them vaccinated.
When I was younger, illnesses like measles could kill. I think people have forgotten how dangerous childhood diseases can be. I get my information from the doctor and online, and I see flu as just one step away from COVID and all the risks that come with it. My daughter was a bit unsure at first, especially when her children were very young, but she decided to go ahead.
My advice? Ask questions, get advice, and understand why it matters. These vaccines are here to keep your children well.
Gill from Billericay
I’ve got two kids—one is five and the other is just over a year. When the flu vaccine was offered, I didn’t see any reason not to go for it. I get vaccinated myself, so it felt natural to do the same for them. I knew it helped prevent serious symptoms, and I was glad to be protecting my child from something that could make them really ill. There were no side effects, and the nasal spray doesn’t hurt at all. I’ll definitely do it again. No pain, nasal spray – easy decision.
Louise from Essex
I’m mum to twin boys who are six. I always get my health info from our GP or NHS Choices, and I’ve never doubted the flu vaccine. It’s safe, effective, and free – what more do you need? I didn’t have a big “aha” moment, I just knew it was the right thing to do. The nurses were great and answered any questions I had.
It feels good knowing they’re protected, especially because we have older relatives to think about too. I’ll be getting them vaccinated again this year. It’s safe – get your child vaccinated!
Natalie from Essex
I didn’t realise pregnant women were eligible for the flu vaccine until one of my antenatal appointments. I looked it up on the NHS website and saw that not only was it safe — it could actually protect my baby before and after birth.
I didn’t want to risk getting flu with a newborn, so I had the vaccine during both of my pregnancies. It was just a quick jab in the arm — no side effects, apart from a bit of soreness.
I’m so glad I did it. It gave me peace of mind and helped keep my babies safe during those early months. I’d definitely recommend it to other mums-to-be. It’s better safe than sorry — especially when you’ve got a little one to think about.
Rachael from Benfleet
I’ve got two little ones – one is three and the other just four months. I get the flu vaccine every year myself, and with my older child having some health conditions, it just made sense to get them protected too.
I didn’t need convincing – it works, and that’s enough for me. I didn’t have any concerns, and after getting them vaccinated, I felt fine.
Honestly, I’d just say to other parents: just do it. I’ll definitely be vaccinating again this year. Vaccinate your children!