The NHS has confirmed flu jab rule changes from September 1, affecting three groups: children aged two and three, those in clinical risk groups, and school-aged children. The changes expand access through community pharmacies to improve uptake.
Vaccination Timelines for Different Groups
Under the NHS, two- and three-year-olds will be vaccinated by GPs from September 1. Community pharmacy service delivery for this age group will begin from October 1, 2026, supplementing the offer in general practice.
For children in clinical risk groups, community pharmacy delivery will start from October 1, 2026, complementing vaccinations by school-aged immunisation services (SAIS) providers and general practice, both beginning from September 1, 2026, or as soon as vaccine is available. However, children in clinical risk groups aged 6 months to less than 2 years cannot be vaccinated by a community pharmacy.
School-Age Children and Missed Opportunities
For school-age children, community pharmacy service delivery will begin from December 1, 2026, for those who missed vaccination by SAIS providers. SAIS providers will start vaccinating from September 1, 2026, or as soon as vaccine is available. In England, the school leaving age is 16, meaning students can leave school on the last Friday of June in the school year they turn 16.
The guidance, approved by Dr Thomas Waite, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Public Health Programmes at UK Health Security Agency, and Caroline Temmink, Director of Vaccination at NHS England, has been issued to GP surgeries.
Official Statement and Rationale
The national flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter states: "To help support improvements in access and uptake, community pharmacies will be able to offer children flu vaccinations during the 2026 to 2027 flu season."
