SCHOOL pupils in the Wee County are receiving their flu vaccines from this week with parents and carers urged to ensure young children are also immunised.

Primary and secondary school pupils across NHS Forth Valley began receiving the vaccine yesterday in Scotland's largest flu immunisation programme to date.

Running until December this year, all pupils will be offered the vaccine, which is delivered as a painless nasal spray in the majority of cases.

Meanwhile, flu vaccination clinics for children aged between the ages of two and five are being set up and appointment letters have been sent out.

Fiona Coan, immunisation manager at NHS Forth Valley, said: "The roll-out of the flu programme this year has now started in our area with the first pupils getting their flu vaccine in school.

"Any pupils not in school on the day flu vaccinations are being delivered can call our local vaccination helpline on 0800 130 3120 to arrange an appointment at a vaccination venue.

"If you've not returned your consent form and the deadline has now passed for your school you can still attend for your vaccine when the flu vaccination team is at your school, just remember to bring your consent form with you on the day."

A wide range of groups will be eligible for the free flu vaccine this year, including everyone aged 50 or above.

Teachers, health and social care workers, prison staff and population, unpaid young carers, pregnant women and those over six months of age with a medical condition that puts them in an "at risk" group will also be invited.

For more information, visit nhsinform.scot/childflu, call 0800 030 8013, or speak to a health or immunisation team, practice nurse, or GP.