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 a flu vaccination so far this season. Current data indicates that around 2.3 million vaccines have been given to eligible children, including about 400,000 two- and three-year-olds, representing 33.4% of that age group.
Efforts to Improve Access
To make vaccination easier, NHSE has expanded access through nearly 4,000 local pharmacies as part of a one-season trial, and also made the vaccine available in supermarkets and on high streets.
Reminder to Parents
Parents are being urged to complete school vaccination consent forms or book appointments for younger children to help ensure protection against flu before the Christmas holidays.
Early Flu Season and Health Concerns
“According to the latest surveillance figures from the UK Health Security Agency, this year’s flu season is off to an ‘unusually early start’.”
NHSE warned that this could lead to a long and demanding winter for the health service, as current flu cases are three times higher than during the same period last year.
Related Context
In Wales, patients requiring time-sensitive surgery have also been granted access to weight-loss jabs, reflecting broader efforts to support public health ahead of the winter season.
Author’s summary: Only one in three toddlers have received the flu vaccine in England despite NHS efforts to expand access, raising concern over an early and intense flu season.