England NHS flu vaccine rollout begins for children and pregnant women

The NHS flu vaccine rollout has commenced in England, with children and pregnant women eligible to receive vaccinations starting September 1. Other high-risk groups, including those aged 65 and over, people with long-term health conditions, care home residents, and carers, can begin receiving their vaccinations from October 1.

Vaccinations will be administered in various settings, such as GP surgeries, pharmacies like Boots, maternity services, and care homes. School-aged children typically receive the vaccine as a nasal spray within their schools, while parents of two- and three-year-olds will be contacted through their GP practices.

Last winter, approximately 19 million people received flu vaccinations, a measure that helped prevent an estimated 104,000 hospital admissions. The program aims to protect vulnerable populations, as children and pregnant women face increased risks of serious illness from the flu.