Recommendation 26

In 2019–20 the long-established seasonal flu vaccination programme had a take-up rate of 72% among those aged 65 years and older, and up to 45% for those aged 64 years or younger. NHSE&I explained that it was using the flu vaccine as an indicator for expected take-up of the COVID-19 vaccine programme as both targeted the same age group. In addition, the COVID-19 vaccine programme was being rolled-out at a time of increased concerns about the virus in the older population. NHSE&I recognised that, while a useful indicator, take-up rates of the flu vaccine would not determine take-up of the COVID-19 vaccines, but asserted that early signs of take-up among those aged 80 and above were very strong. It confirmed that its plans for the supply of vaccines meant the enough would be available should take-up rates be higher than expected.75