Flu Programme 2021/22
This is where you can find information on the national flu immunisation programme 2021/22.
FAQs document on the Yorkshire and Humber flu programme 2021/22 developed by NHSE/NHSI. It is subject to updating.
Enhanced Services Influenza Specifications - August 2021
NHS England has published two Enhanced Service Specifications for the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme 2021/22.
The service specifications for 2021/22 are largely based on the 2020/21 flu service specifications, with the exception that the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme specification (covering adults and at-risk groups) will be commissioned as an Enhanced Service this year to enable greater responsiveness to any subsequent JCVI advice or Government policy. The Childhood Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme 2021/22 was previously commissioned as an Enhanced Service. The Enhanced Services will be offered to all GP practices providing essential services and will not be capable of amendment by CCGs.
A further key change to the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme 2021/22 Enhanced Service Specification is that for this season, practices will be able to vaccinate various cohorts of patients that are not registered with the practice.
All practices are invited to opt-in to the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme 2021/22 enhance services by 23:59 on Monday 16 August 2021.
Annual Flu Vaccination Letter - July 2021
The annual national flu immunisation programme 2021 to 2022 letter has now been published. This year, the eligible cohort from the start of the programme includes those aged 50 and over and the letter states that, as trials are still ongoing to ascertain whether co-administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines will be permissible, practices should continue planning for influenza vaccination as usual, with further advice to be issued should co-administration with COVID-19 vaccination be recommended.
Flu Vaccination Programme 2021/22 - Update April 2021
The BMA report they have now received confirmation from NHSEI that there will not be central procurement of flu vaccine for the coming year’s scheme, but the at-risk group will be extended as it was in 2020/21. Practices should take this into account when placing orders. The annual flu reimbursement letter was updated on 1 April 2021. A copy of the latest version can be found here. The letter confirmed that those aged 50-64 year old will be included in the 21/22 flu programme and also confirmed the inclusion of a QIVr vaccine (Supemtek).
Flu Vaccine Reimbursement 2021/22 - Update February 2021
NHSE/I has issued guidelines on vaccines for use during the 2021/22 flu programme, following the publication of JCVI advice. The vaccines recommended for use are:
- Those aged 65 years and over: aQIV or QIVc (where aQIV is not available)
- At-risk adults, including pregnant women, aged 18 to less than 65 years: QIVc or QIVe (where QIVc is not available).
Practices are urged to read the guidelines and submit vaccine orders as soon as practical.