Clinics, school programmes, pharmacies and community sites are offering flu vaccinations as the NHS targets children and pregnant women ahead of the winter infection season.
The NHS has begun its autumn flu vaccination drive for children and pregnant women, with clinics, school programmes and community sites being used to reach families before winter infection rates rise. The first phase of the programme is designed to protect those most likely to be affected by serious illness, while also slowing the spread of flu through households and schools.
According to NHS England, most school-aged children will be offered the nasal spray vaccine at school, while parents of two- and three-year-olds, and children in clinical risk groups, will be able to arrange appointments through their GP practice. Pregnant women can be vaccinated at any stage of pregnancy through their maternity team, GP surgery or a participating pharmacy. The health service has also widened access through pharmacies, mobile vans and other local outreach, as it tries to make vaccination as convenient as possible.
The NHS says flu is far more than a heavy cold and can lead to hospital treatment, particularly among children and pregnant women. It estimates that around 104,000 hospital admissions were avoided last year, while almost 19 million people in England received a flu jab over the winter. Dr Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said vaccination “only takes a few minutes” but can “make a real difference” by helping protect both the individual and those around them.
From 1 October, the next phase of the programme will open to other eligible groups, including people aged 65 and over, adults with certain long-term conditions, care home residents, carers, close contacts of immunocompromised people, people experiencing homelessness and frontline health and social care staff. The NHS has also expanded its year-round RSV programme to include some people aged 65 to 74 with weakened immune systems or certain long-term lung conditions. Pregnant women can also receive the RSV, whooping cough and flu vaccines, which are intended to help protect newborn babies in their first weeks of life.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
