By Isle of Wight Observer
The winter flu vaccination campaign for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight begins on Monday 1 September 2025, targeting some of the most vulnerable residents.
Pregnant women, toddlers aged 2-3, primary and secondary school children, and children in clinically at-risk groups are eligible to receive the vaccination.
Parents of young children and pregnant women are being urged to contact their GP practices to book an appointment, while school-aged children will receive their vaccinations at school. For most toddlers, the vaccine is delivered as a quick, painless nasal spray, often described as a “little tickle.”
Dr Michele Legg, GP and Clinical Lead for the NHS Hampshire and IW Vaccination Programme, said: “The vaccine protects children against flu and serious complications like bronchitis and pneumonia. It also helps reduce the spread of flu to vulnerable friends and family. The nasal spray is painless and has an excellent safety record.”
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, a Hampshire GP, added: “Pregnant women and breastfeeding parents should take up the offer. Vaccinations are safe at any stage of pregnancy and help protect both you and your baby from becoming seriously unwell. I strongly recommend flu, RSV, and whooping cough vaccines ahead of winter.”
Appointments can be booked directly via the NHS App, by calling 119, or through GP practices. Parents of children not currently in school will be contacted by the School Aged Immunisation Service or can contact their GP. For help with eligibility or booking, call the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight COVID-19 Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018.
The wider flu and COVID-19 vaccination campaign will launch on 1 October, covering older adults, clinical risk groups, carers, and frontline health and social care workers.
Carole Dennett 
Mal Butler