Only 55.5% of primary school children, approximately 2.5 million out of 4.5 million eligible, received a flu vaccine during the 2025-26 winter season. This represents a slight increase from the 54.5% uptake recorded in winter 2024-25.
However, the current uptake is lower than the over 60% levels observed before the COVID-19 pandemic in winter 2019-20. Uptake has been lower for several years since a peak of 62.5% in 2020-21.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding parents to return consent forms for flu vaccinations, which are starting in some schools this week. Local immunisation teams will visit schools across their regions, with all schools expected to be offered sessions by late November.
Vaccination is considered the best protection against flu, with evidence from last year's season showing strong effectiveness for school-aged children aged 2 to 17 years. The vaccine is estimated to have prevented 52% of children from needing a GP visit and 68% from being hospitalised.
Dr. Suzanna McDonald, Flu Programme Lead at the UKHSA, stated that younger children are at higher risk of complications and hospitalisation from flu. Dr. Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services, also highlighted flu vaccinations as vital protection for young children.