Expanded Vaccination Programmes for Flu and Covid-19 Commence in Walsall

Strategic Insights -

This autumn, Walsall Council has started its vaccination programmes for flu and Covid-19, targeting various demographics, including young children, pregnant women, school-aged children, and older adults. The roll-out aims to provide maximum protection as the population spends more time indoors during the winter months, increasing the risk of illnesses like flu and Covid-19. The programme also extends to frontline health and social care staff, carers, and individuals living with weakened immune systems.

Key Takeaways:

  • The vaccination programmes for flu and Covid-19 began on 1 September 2025, targeting young children (aged 2 and 3), pregnant women, and school-aged children, as well as children in risk groups aged 6 months to 18 years.
  • From 1 October 2025, the programme will extend to older adults, people in clinical risk groups, and those living in care homes, with the goal of offering both vaccines at the same time for convenience and maximum protection.
  • Frontline health and social care staff, carers, and people living with weakened immune systems are also eligible for flu vaccines from 1 October 2025.
  • The vaccination programme includes the expanded Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination for those aged 75 to 79 and pregnant women over 28 weeks, as well as Pneumococcal vaccines for anyone aged 65 and over.
  • Eligible residents can book appointments for Covid-19 and flu vaccinations via the National Booking System, the NHS App, or by calling 119, which provides support in 200 different languages.

Statistics:

  • 1 September 2025: Start date for vaccination programmes targeting young children, pregnant women, school-aged children, and children in risk groups.
  • 1 October 2025: Date for the extended programme targeting older adults, people in clinical risk groups, and those living in care homes.
  • 200 languages: Support provided by the National Booking System for non-English speakers.

Sources:

  • Walsall Council: The vaccination programmes started on 1 September 2025...
  • NHS website: For more information on the flu vaccine and Covid-19 vaccine.