Children across the Cootamundra state electorate between the ages of six months and five years can now receive the vaccination for free.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the new influenza vaccination program offered by the NSW Government would help avoid a repeat of last year’s flu season.

“Last year NSW saw more than 12,000 confirmed cases of influenza in children under five and our region was also hit hard,” Ms Cooke said.

“This program will vaccinate more than 400,000 children across the state, boosting protection for them, their families and the broader community.

“We all know how horrendous the flu is for young and old, but it has a particularly marked impact on the youngest members of our families.

“Little children are also most likely to spread the flu so a free flu jab will not only keep them safe, but will protect others they come into contact with.”

Children who have never had a flu vaccination need two doses, one month apart.