Only a third of toddlers vaccinated as NHS issues flu jab warning

Only a Third of Toddlers Vaccinated as NHS Issues Flu Jab Warning

So far this flu season, little more than a third of eligible two- and three-year-olds in England have received a flu vaccination, according to NHS England (NHSE) data. Around 2.3 million vaccines have been administered to eligible children, including 400,000 toddlers, representing just 33.4% of that age group.

Efforts to Improve Vaccine Access

NHSE has expanded access to flu vaccines by offering them at nearly 4,000 local pharmacies, supermarkets, and high street locations as part of a one-season trial, making it easier for parents to get their young children vaccinated.

Parental Reminders and Early Flu Season

Parents are urged to complete their child’s vaccination consent forms via schools or to book appointments for two- to three-year-olds.
This is important to ensure children are protected against flu before the Christmas holidays.

"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 early surge could result in a “long and drawn-out winter” for the health service, with cases currently three times higher than at the same time last year.

Related Context

In Wales, patients needing urgent surgery have been granted access to weight loss injections, reflecting wider health service adaptations amid ongoing challenges.

Author's summary: Despite expanded access through pharmacies and shops, only a third of eligible toddlers in England have been vaccinated for flu, raising concerns amid an unusually early and severe flu season.

The Pharmacist — 2025-11-06