The reminder comes as latest figures reveal that only 28% of eligible children in this age group across Essex have received their flu vaccination this season. The free vaccination, administered as a quick and painless nasal spray, is available at participating local pharmacies and GP practices.
Health officials emphasise that flu can make young children seriously unwell, sometimes requiring hospital treatment. Vaccinating children also plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of the virus to vulnerable individuals, including babies, grandparents, and those with underlying health conditions.
Bhavesh Patel, community pharmacist at Audley Mills pharmacy in Rayleigh, highlighted the convenience of booking appointments at local pharmacies, some of which offer walk-in vaccinations. Alternatively, parents can schedule appointments at their GP practice.
The appeal is supported by NHS Essex’s Super Bodies campaign, which aims to educate parents and carers on protecting children from common winter illnesses. All children who were aged two or three on 31 August 2026 are eligible for the free NHS flu vaccination and are encouraged to book as soon as possible.
“"Every parent wants to keep their little ones healthy, but we know that flu can be much more serious for young children than people sometimes realise. With only 28% of eligible two- and three-year-olds across Essex vaccinated so far, we really want to encourage more families to take up this important protection."
