In 2012, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended that the annual flu vaccination programme – which at the time was limited to those considered at high risk from complications of the illness, such as those aged 65 years and over, pregnant women and individuals with certain long-term conditions – should be extended to all healthy children aged from two to 17. This was a huge logistical and practical challenge, so the extension is being phased in, with more children included each year. 

Across the UK this year, all children who were aged between two and seven years on 31 August plus all two to 17-year-olds with long-term health conditions qualify for a free NHS vaccination. In some areas, such as Scotland, all children are being offered the vaccine. Children aged between six months and two years who are in at-risk groups are also being offered the injection.