The JCVI, a body of independent health experts, have suggested the health benefits outweigh the difficulties.

BBC: Flu vaccines for children in Northern Ireland

Mr Poots said he had taken the decision following a recommendation from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

BBC: Flu vaccines for children in Northern Ireland

The JCVI says there may be "mixed reactions" to the flu immunisation plans and it recommends an information campaign for parents, children and healthcare staff.

BBC: Flu vaccines for all children

The expectation is that under-fives will be vaccinated in GP surgeries and older children at school, but the JCVI says there are currently "far too few" school nurses to enable this to happen.

BBC: Flu vaccines for all children

In the minutes of its latest meeting the JCVI says the vaccine has "a good safety profile" and may be more widely accepted by parents and children because it is given in the form of a nasal spray.

BBC: Flu vaccines for all children

The Joint Committe on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) said the new strategy would avert a large number of flu cases among children as well as many severe cases and deaths, mostly among the elderly and others vulnerable to the infection.

BBC: Flu vaccines for all children

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which provides vaccination advice to the government plan to meet in June when they will discuss the vaccine and whether to add it to the list of vaccines routinely offered to young children.

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