Parents and carers of children who were two and three years old on 31st August 2026 are being encouraged to take up the offer of a free flu vaccine to help protect them this winter.

Quick and painless nasal spray

Given as a quick and painless nasal spray, the vaccine is available through GP practices or pharmacies offering NHS children’s flu vaccinations.

With winter viruses already beginning to circulate and temperatures starting to fall, cases of flu are already starting to appear.

Serious complications  

While flu is often thought of as a mild illness, it can be particularly unpleasant for young children, causing fever, aches, tiredness, sore throats and coughs. In some cases, it can lead to more serious complications and hospital admission. Children are also more likely to pass flu on to family members and others in the community.

Parents and carers are being urged not to delay booking their child's free vaccination. They do not need to wait for an invitation and can contact their GP practice to book an appointment. Or they can find their nearest pharmacies offering NHS children’s flu vaccinations.

Book an appointment

You can book an appointment:

• here online.
• using the NHS app.

Or you can book over the phone by calling 119 free of charge. You can ask for an interpreter if you need one.

Find a pharmacy

You can use this link to find their nearest pharmacies offering NHS flu vaccinations.

Protecting family members and wider community

Dr Fiona Lemmens, Executive Clinical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: "It only takes a few moments, but it can help prevent an unpleasant illness and reduce the spread of flu to family members and the wider community.

"Flu tends to spread first in children, so getting vaccinated early gives them the best chance of being protected as we head into winter.  It can also help protect those who may be more vulnerable to serious illness, including grandparents, new-born babies and people with underlying health conditions.

"For most children, the vaccine is given as a quick and painless nasal spray. Booking their vaccine now means they can enjoy the months ahead with the best possible protection in place before flu cases begin to rise."

You can find more information about the children's flu vaccine on the NHS website.