Children of Milton Keynes to be offered free flu vaccines through local schools and pharmacies

Parents in Milton Keynes are being urged to get their children vaccinated against seasonal flu viruses at local schools and pharmacies.

Children from Reception to Year 11 continue to be offered a free vaccination at school. GP practices will also be offering flu vaccination to children who were aged two or three years on 31 August 2026, as well as to children aged six months and over who are in a clinical risk group.

From 1 October, flu vaccinations for two and three-year-olds will also be available at participating pharmacies across the city. This year, pharmacies can also vaccinate children aged 2 to 17 years who are in a clinical risk group.

Flu can be unpleasant for children and in some cases, can cause serious illness. People over 65, pregnant women, young children, and anyone with an underlying health condition or weakened immune system can be particularly vulnerable.

Vaccinating your child will help to protect them as well as more vulnerable family and friends by preventing the spread of flu.

For most children aged two years and over, the flu immunisation will be offered as a nasal spray, although an injection is also available for those who cannot receive this version of the vaccine. For eligible under twos the vaccination is offered as an injection.

The injectable flu vaccine does not contain porcine gelatine and is available for parents who prefer their child not to receive the nasal spray for religious, cultural or personal reasons.

Councillor Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health, Community and Housing, said, “We all want children to stay healthy and make the most of their time at school. The flu vaccine helps protect children from becoming unwell and reduces the risk of them passing flu on to others, particularly those who may be more vulnerable.”

Marimba Carr, Deputy Director of Public Health for Milton Keynes, added, “We’re encouraging parents and carers to take up the offer of flu vaccination for their child when they receive information from their school. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect children from flu and can help prevent them becoming seriously unwell. A strong uptake also helps reduce the spread of flu and protects others across our community.”