From 1 September, pregnant women, children aged two and three years (on 31 August 2026), and children with certain long-term health conditions can receive their vaccine through their GP practice. Parents of school-aged children from Reception to Year 11 will also be invited to provide consent for vaccinations delivered in most schools.
Pregnant women can receive the flu vaccine through their maternity service, GP practice or participating community pharmacy.
Last winter, more than 2.34 million people were vaccinated against flu across the East of England. Nationally, nearly 19 million people were vaccinated, with around 104,000 hospital admissions estimated to have been prevented.
Cali Makewell, Strategic Vaccination Lead at NHS Central East, said:
“Flu can be particularly serious for young children and pregnant women, which is why we’re encouraging everyone who is eligible to come forward when invited.
“Getting vaccinated during pregnancy helps protect both mother and baby, while children’s flu vaccination helps protect them from serious illness and reduce the spread of flu to family members and others around them.
“The flu vaccine is our best protection against winter illness. It only takes a few minutes but can help prevent serious illness, reduce pressure on NHS services and protect the most vulnerable people in our communities. Flu season typically peaks during December and January, so it is important that those eligible get vaccinated as early as possible.”
The National Booking Service is also now open for everyone aged 65 and over, people aged 18 to 65 with certain health conditions, care home residents, carers, close contacts of people with weakened immune systems, and frontline health and social care workers. Appointments for these groups will be available from 1 October.
Eligible people can book online, through the NHS App or by calling 119 free of charge.
Cali Makewell added: “The National Booking Service is also now open for other eligible groups, with flu vaccination appointments available from 1 October.”
“If you’re aged 65 or over, have a long-term health condition, are a carer, a frontline health or social care worker, or are otherwise eligible, you can book your appointment now. Getting vaccinated ahead of winter helps protect you, your loved ones and our NHS services during what is often the busiest time of year.”
Alongside the flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccinations will also be available from 1 October for adults aged 75 and over, older adult care home residents and people who are immunosuppressed. Where possible, eligible adults will be offered both vaccines during the same appointment.