Important vaccination information

UKHSA urges vaccination against respiratory viruses ahead of winter

The UK Health Security Agency urges people to book their vaccinations against flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as cases are starting to increase ahead of the winter months.

UKHSA urges vaccination against respiratory viruses ahead of winter - GOV.UK

To ensure people are protected ahead of the peak respiratory illness season, UKHSA is highlighting the importance of taking up the free NHS offer as soon as you are invited for vaccination. Pregnant women and millions of children have already been able to get vaccinated, with appointments for most eligible groups available from 1 October.

For the first time this year, in addition to other eligible groups, toddlers can also get their flu vaccination, which is given as a nasal spray, at community pharmacies.

To book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment, visit the National Booking Service:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/

Free chickenpox vaccination to be offered for first time to children in England from January

Recently the government announced that starting next January, young children in England will get a combined vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.

From January next year, GP practises will offer eligible children a combined vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) – the clinical term for chickenpox – as part of the routine infant vaccination schedule.

Expected to be given to around half a million children each year across England, the vaccination will be given to eligible children during routine GP appointments as part of the infant vaccination schedule.

Eligibility will be based on how old a child is when the programme starts in January 2026. Parents will be provided with more information nearer the time.

For more information, visit:
Free chickenpox vaccination offered for first time to children - GOV.UK

The UKHSA and NHS England are calling on parents to check their child’s vaccine records and catch up on any missed vaccinations with their GP practice.

Read more, at:
Almost 1 in 5 children starting primary school are not fully protected against several serious diseases - GOV.UK