Childhood Flu Vaccination Service 2026/27
The childhood Flu Vaccination Service in community pharmacies has been expanded for the 2026/27 flu season.
Key changes
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The pilot service for children aged 2–3 years has been extended for autumn/winter 2026/27.
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The service fee paid to participating pharmacies has been increased.
- Following discussions between Community Pharmacy England and NHS England, pharmacies will now also be able to provide opportunistic flu vaccinations to:
- Clinically at-risk children aged 2 years to under 18 years; and
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School-aged children (Reception to Year 11) who missed their vaccination through the School Aged Immunisation Service (SAIS).
When can vaccinations begin?
According to the amendment to the national flu immunisation programme letter:
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2- and 3-year-olds: community pharmacy vaccinations start 1 October 2026.
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Clinically at-risk children aged 2 to under 18: community pharmacy vaccinations start 1 October 2026.
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School-aged catch-up vaccinations (Reception to Year 11): community pharmacy vaccinations start 1 December 2026 for children who missed their school vaccination opportunity.
Why this matters
The expansion is intended to:
- Improve access to flu vaccination for children.
- Increase vaccination uptake.
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Provide additional opportunities for children who are at higher risk or who missed vaccination through school-based programmes.
Official announcement
The changes were formally announced in the Amendment to the National Flu Immunisation Programme 2026 to 2027 Letter, published by the UK Government on 9 June 2026.
Source: GOV.UK – Amendment to national flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter. [gov.uk]
Check for more information on the Community Pharmacy England website. Childhood Flu Vaccination Service – Community Pharmacy England
