PROVIDING NHS SERVICES
NHS Children’s Flu Vaccination
Our Child Flu Vaccination Service is having a rest.
Thank you to everyone who chose to protect their little ones through our pharmacies. This service has now concluded for Winter 2025-2026.
We’ll update this page in August for information on the coming year’s vaccination schedule. For now, why not view our other health services?
Parents often ask us…
Yes. The nasal spray flu vaccine has been used safely in millions of children. It’s quick, painless, and helps protect against flu and its complications.
Flu strains change each winter. The vaccine is updated annually to protect against the most common strains, so a yearly dose is needed.
If it’s a minor, temporary illness, then it will be fine for your child to be vaccinated, so long as they are not experiencing large amounts of nasal congestion. (This would affect the delivery of the vaccine).
If they have a high temperature or are very unwell, it’s best to delay until they’ve recovered.
Some children can’t have the nasal spray (for example, those with a weakened immune system or severe egg allergy). If the child has parents or household contacts who have a weakened immune system, the nasal vaccine also isn’t recommended.
In these cases, an alternative injectable flu vaccine may be offered instead — just ask our pharmacy team.
Most children have minimal side effects. Some may get a runny nose, mild headache, a mild temperature, or tiredness for a day or two. These are usually very short-lived.
We’ll provide advice about any side effects, and anything to look out for, during the consultation.
The nasal spray contains a weakened form of the virus, which cannot give your child flu. Some children may get mild, flu-like symptoms for a day or two as their body builds protection.
Enjoy happy, healthy winter days together — protect against flu.
Questions? Get In Touch.
View our other Vaccination Services.
Private COVID-19 Vaccination Service
Private Flu Vaccination
