Only a third of toddlers vaccinated as NHS issues flu jab warning
According to NHS England (NHSE), just over one-third of eligible two- and three-year-olds in England have received their flu vaccine so far this season. Data show that out of 2.3 million vaccines distributed to eligible children, around 400,000 doses were administered to toddlers, representing only 33.4% of that group.
To make vaccination more accessible, NHSE expanded availability to nearly 4,000 local pharmacies, supermarkets, and high street clinics as part of a one-season pilot programme.
“Parents are being reminded to complete their child’s vaccination consent forms for schools or to book an appointment for two- to three-year-olds to ensure their child gets protected against flu ahead of the Christmas holidays.”
The UK Health Security Agency reported that this year’s flu season has started unusually early, raising concerns among health officials.
“NHSE warned it could mean a long and drawn-out winter for the health service, with case numbers three times higher than at this point last year.”
Author’s Summary
Flu vaccinations for England’s youngest children remain low despite broader pharmacy access, prompting NHS warnings of a potentially severe and prolonged winter flu season.