Which vaccines should children have, and when?

Most childhood vaccinations are given before children start school, but there are several important vaccines offered during secondary school to help protect against serious diseases and some cancers. If your child has missed any vaccinations, it's never too late to catch up.

Flu vaccine (Years 7 to 11)
Every autumn, children and young people from Reception through to Year 11 are offered a free flu vaccine. Most children receive this as a quick nasal spray rather than an injection. The vaccine helps protect against flu and reduces the risk of spreading it to more vulnerable family members and friends. More information is available on the NHS Children's Flu Vaccine page. 

HPV vaccine (Year 8)
Children in Year 8 are offered the HPV vaccine, which helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus that can cause several types of cancer, including cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the head, neck and genital area. The vaccine is offered to both boys and girls and provides long-lasting protection. Find out more on the NHS HPV Vaccine page.

MenACWY vaccine (Year 9)
Teenagers in Year 9 are offered the MenACWY vaccine. This protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y), which can cause meningitis and sepsis. These illnesses can develop quickly and become life-threatening, particularly in teenagers and young adults. Read more on the NHS MenACWY Vaccine page.

3-in-1 teenage booster (Year 9)
Also offered in Year 9, the 3-in-1 teenage booster helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria and polio. Although children receive earlier doses when they are younger, this booster is needed to top up protection and help keep them protected into adulthood. You can find more information in the NHS vaccinations guide. 

What if my child has missed a vaccination?
Children and young people who have missed vaccinations can still catch up. The NHS offers catch-up appointments for HPV, MenACWY and the 3-in-1 teenage booster, while the MMR vaccine can be given free of charge at any age if doses were missed earlier in childhood. Speak to your GP practice, school nurse or local school immunisation team if you're unsure whether your child is up to date. Learn more about catch-up vaccinations on the NHS MMR Vaccine page and the NHS Childhood Vaccinations page. 

Why keeping vaccinations up to date matters
Vaccines help protect children against serious diseases and can prevent infections spreading through communities. When more people are vaccinated, those who are too young or too vulnerable to be vaccinated themselves are also better protected. 

If you're not sure whether your child is up to date with their vaccinations, contact your GP practice, school nurse or local school immunisation team. They can check your child's vaccination record and arrange any catch-up vaccinations if needed. It's never too late to catch up on missed vaccines.

For the full schedule of vaccinations offered to children and young people, visit the NHS Vaccinations and When to Have Them page.