The school-based programme is implemented by NHS England. It has to be delivered in a short time frame to all primary schools from early October when the vaccine becomes available and involves considerable planning and engagement with schools. Everyone should have received an offer of the vaccine before mid-December as flu usually circulates by January. Providers plan to visit each school before Christmas. This does mean that some children will be offered immunisation later in the year. However, any child at risk because of an underlying medical condition is able to attend their GP for immunisation so would not have to wait.
Nonetheless this schedule ensures the programme is likely to be completed before influenza circulation starts, which is usually late in December or January. Evaluation of the United Kingdom paediatric influenza vaccine programme since its introduction has provided encouraging results of its effectiveness and population impact.
