Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to publicise the need for vaccination against (a) influenza and (b) covid-19.

This year, we are carrying out a major campaign aimed at eligible people, encouraging them to take up their vaccinations, supported by millions of targeted emails, texts and letters sent nationally. The winter vaccination national booking service is opening earlier than ever for advance bookings, supported by a press and social media launch.

The Department works closely with partners at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS England to produce a variety of influenza and COVID-19 communication tools and materials including translation of information and guidance materials into over 30 languages; in accessible formats including braille, audio, large print, Easy Read and British Sign Language; dedicated products for target population groups for individual vaccine programmes; and focused work with relevant third sector organisations ahead of major campaigns.

For the 2025-26 flu season, we are encouraging those most at risk of serious illness to get vaccinated. Targeted communications to pregnant women and the parents of eligible children started this month. The campaign for other eligible groups will run from October 2025 and will consist of TV, radio advertising, digital advertising, both social and display, supported by search and partnership activity.

Additionally, NHS England has developed an enhanced campaign aimed at improving flu uptake among frontline health and social care workers, using multiple ways to reach staff including workplace communications, partnerships with unions and professional bodies, and materials tailored for different healthcare roles.