Keep the Bogeyman Away: NHS Cornwall’s Halloween Health Warnings for Families

With half term and Halloween just around the corner, NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly are sharing some “fang-tastic” tips to help families keep their little monsters safe and healthy this October.

Stay Safe from the Sniffles

As the season for coughs, colds and flu approaches, families are being encouraged to keep noses clean, hands washed, and to stay away from vulnerable people when unwell. The NHS is reminding parents that prevention is better than cure, and that the flu nasal spray vaccine is the best defence for children this winter.

Parents can fill in the consent form for the flu nasal spray at school or book an appointment for their 2 or 3 year olds to get vaccinated. If a child misses their school session or is home-schooled, catch-up appointments can be made with the School Age Immunisation Team by calling 01872 221105 or emailing kernowhealthcic.phimms@nhs.net.

To understand why flu vaccines are important for children, families can watch Henry’s story, which tells how a Cornish boy ended up in hospital with the flu.

Susan Bracefield, NHS Cornwall’s interim chief executive and chief nursing officer, said:

“Ahead of winter we want families to know through our fun Halloween themed advice how they can keep their loved ones healthy and well. Flu can be much more than just a sniffle and for some, it can lead to serious illness, from ear infections to pneumonia; and in the worst cases can result in hospitalisation.”

She added:

“The good news is there are small steps you can take to get your family winter ready and the most important is to take up the free, painless nasal spray flu vaccine for children aged 2-17 years to protect their loved ones over winter.

By vaccinating your child, you’re not only protecting them from illness, but you’re also helping prevent flu from spreading to those who are most at risk. It’s a small step that can make a big difference to your child’s health, and to those around them.”

When Little Ones are Feeling Green

Norovirus, the winter vomiting bug, also spreads easily at this time of year. Parents are reminded to wash hands before eating or preparing food and to keep children off school for 48 hours after any sickness or diarrhoea.

The NHS also reminds families that antibacterial gels don’t kill norovirus, so proper handwashing with soap and water is essential. To help make it fun, there’s an NHS hand washing video for children to follow along with.

Treating Bumps and Breaks

If Halloween fun leads to any bumps or scrapes, there are plenty of ways to find help. From home first aid to pharmacies and local minor injury units, treatment options are available across Cornwall.

Parents can find current waiting times, opening hours and X-ray facilities on the Royal Cornwall Hospitals urgent care page.

More Spook-tacular Tips

Sweet treats are a big part of Halloween, but moderation is key to avoiding an upset tummy. Parents are advised to check packaging carefully to avoid allergens or choking hazards, especially for younger children. Fruit slices can make a tasty alternative.

Thousands of primary and nursery school children in Cornwall are already part of the Big Brush Club, which promotes fun and supervised toothbrushing sessions to support better oral health.

Finally, before trick-or-treating begins, the NHS advises checking that children’s costumes carry a fire safety label to ensure a fun and safe night.

Halloween might be about scary costumes and spooky surprises, but NHS Cornwall’s advice is clear: a few small steps can help families enjoy a happy and healthy half term.