Only a Third of Toddlers Vaccinated as NHS Issues Flu Jab Warning
So far this flu season, just over one-third of eligible two- and three-year-olds in England have received a flu vaccination, according to NHS England (NHSE) data. Out of 2.3 million vaccines given to eligible children, only around 400,000 were administered to this age group, representing 33.4% coverage.
Efforts to Improve Vaccination Access
NHSE has expanded access to flu vaccines by offering them at nearly 4,000 local pharmacies in a one-season trial, in addition to availability in supermarkets and high street locations. This initiative aims to make it easier for parents to vaccinate their young children.
Parental Reminder and Flu Season Outlook
Parents are urged to complete vaccination consent forms through schools or book appointments for toddlers to help protect their children ahead of the Christmas holidays.
According to the UK Health Security Agency’s latest surveillance, this year’s flu season has started “unusually early”. NHSE warned this could lead to a “long and drawn-out winter” for the health service, with case numbers currently three times higher than last year.
Related Information
- Flu vaccinations are part of ongoing efforts to manage the increased demand on health services during peak seasons.
- Patients requiring urgent surgery in Wales have been given access to weight loss injections to reduce surgical risks.
Author's summary: Despite efforts to increase access, only about a third of toddlers in England have been vaccinated against flu, with an early and intense season warning health services to prepare for a difficult winter.