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, just over one-third of eligible two- and three-year-olds in England have been vaccinated, NHS England (NHSE) reports. Out of 2.3 million vaccines given to children, only 400,000 doses were administered to toddlers aged two and three, representing 33.4% of that group.

Efforts to Increase Vaccination Access

NHSE has expanded vaccination availability by offering flu jabs in nearly 4,000 local pharmacies as part of a one-season trial. Vaccinations are also accessible in supermarkets and high street locations to make it easier for parents to protect their young children.

Parental Reminder and Flu Season Outlook

Parents are encouraged to submit their children's vaccination consent forms to schools or to book appointments for toddlers to ensure protection against flu before the Christmas holidays.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, this flu season is starting "unusually early."

NHSE warns that this early surge could lead to a "long and drawn-out winter" for the health service, with case numbers already three times higher than at the same point last year.

Patients needing time-sensitive surgery are being given access to weight loss injections in Wales.

Summary: Despite efforts to improve access, only a third of toddlers in England have been vaccinated against flu, raising concerns over a challenging and prolonged flu season ahead.

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The Pharmacist — 2025-11-06