Only a third of toddlers vaccinated as NHS issues flu jab warning
Just over a third of eligible two- and three-year-olds in England have received the flu vaccine so far this season, according to new figures from NHS England (NHSE). The data indicates about 2.3 million doses have been administered to eligible children, including 400,000 given to toddlers in this age group — roughly 33.4% of them.
Efforts to expand access
To make vaccination more convenient, NHSE has launched a one-season trial involving nearly 4,000 local pharmacies. Parents can now vaccinate their children not only at clinics but also in supermarkets and on high streets.
Health officials’ reminders
Parents are urged to finish and submit vaccination consent forms for school programs or schedule appointments for two- and three-year-olds. This ensures children receive protection against flu before the Christmas period.
Earlier flu season and health concerns
According to the UK Health Security Agency, “this year’s flu season is off to an unusually early start.”
NHSE warned that such an early onset could bring a long and demanding winter for the health service, with flu cases currently reported to be three times higher than at the same point last year.
Author’s Summary
Flu vaccination rates among England’s toddlers remain low, prompting NHS concerns as early flu activity suggests a challenging winter for health services.