The NHS has announced changes to the 2026/27 winter flu vaccination programme, including a new option for young children to receive their flu jabs at community pharmacies for the first time. Starting October 1, 2026, eligible children aged two and three can get vaccinated at participating pharmacies across England, supplementing the existing GP surgery programme that begins on September 1.
Eligibility and Rollout Details
Under the updated plans, children aged two to under 18 who are in clinical risk groups will also be able to receive their flu vaccine through community pharmacies from October 1. These children remain eligible for vaccination through school-aged immunisation services and GP practices from September. The NHS stated that the changes are designed to make flu vaccinations more accessible for families while helping to boost uptake ahead of winter.
Adult Programme Unchanged
The NHS confirmed there are no changes to the adult rollout, with eligible adults continuing to be offered their flu vaccination from October 1. In a joint statement, Dr Thomas Waite, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Public Health Programmes at the UK Health Security Agency, and Caroline Temmink, Director of Vaccination at NHS England, said: "In line with the advice from JCVI, the start of the adult programme for 2026 to 2027 will continue to be October 1. This start date is based on evidence of the waning of flu vaccine's effectiveness in adults which means that it is preferable to vaccinate individuals closer to the time when the flu virus is likely to circulate. As flu typically peaks in December or January, this will provide optimal protection during the highest risk period, even in early seasons such as we saw in 2025 to 2026 season."
Uptake and Public Campaign
The health service noted that uptake of the flu vaccine among people aged 65 and over and care home residents remains strong, but maintaining high vaccination rates is essential to reduce severe illness, hospital admissions, and winter pressures on the NHS. To encourage take-up, people aged 65 and over will begin receiving national digital invitations from late September alongside a nationwide public information campaign. Regional NHS commissioners have also been instructed to ensure all residents in long-stay care homes have been offered a flu vaccine by November 30.
