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 been vaccinated against flu so far this season, according to NHS England (NHSE) data.
Vaccination Coverage and Efforts
NHSE reports that 2.3 million flu vaccines have been given to eligible children. Of those, only 400,000 are two- and three-year-olds, representing 33.4% coverage in that age group.
To improve access, the NHS has expanded flu vaccinations to nearly 4,000 local pharmacies nationwide for a one-season trial. Vaccinations are also available in supermarkets and other high street locations.
Parental Reminders and Early Flu Season
Parents are urged to return vaccination consent forms to schools or book appointments for their young children to ensure protection before the Christmas holidays.
“This year’s flu season is off to an unusually early start,” the UK Health Security Agency reports.
NHSE cautions that this early surge could lead to a prolonged winter pressure on healthcare, with flu cases currently three times higher than at the same point last year.
Summary
The NHS is pushing to increase flu vaccination among young children amid an early and more severe flu season, emphasizing easier access and timely immunizations.