THE swine flu vaccination programme in North Yorkshire has now been extended.

All children over six months and under five years old across the county are now being offered protection against the virus.

Most parents with children in this age group will receive a letter from NHS North Yorkshire and York in the next few weeks asking them to make an appointment with their GP practice for their child to receive the vaccine.

A small number of practices are writing directly to their patients with this information.

The county’s associate director of public health, Dr Phil Kirby, said: "Whilst it is a personal choice, I would advise all parents whose children are offered the vaccine to take it up.

"Young children are particularly vulnerable to severe illness as a result of swine flu, and children under five have significantly higher rates of hospitalisation than children aged five to fifteen. They also have high rates of admission to critical care.

"Vaccination is the best way to protect young children from possible complications. If you have any concerns about the vaccine you can talk to your GP or practice nurse."

More information about the swine flu vaccine is available from northyorkshireandyork.nhs.uk