The annual flu vaccination programme, delivered by SAIS in schools between September and December, aims to protect children, their families, and the wider community from flu during winter. Providing a consent response, whether accepting or declining vaccination, is crucial for the immunisation team's planning and ensuring every child has the opportunity to be vaccinated.
A new online system called MAVIS (Manage Vaccinations in Schools), developed by NHS England, will streamline the process. Parents and carers will now receive secure consent invitations directly from SAIS via email or text message, replacing the previous method of schools distributing links. This direct communication allows families to give or decline consent, and access information about the vaccine.
While schools will continue to support vaccination programmes and host sessions, they will no longer distribute consent links. Families who miss their school clinic can book appointments at catch-up clinics across Derby and Derbyshire via the NHS England website.
The flu vaccination programme is important as flu can be a serious illness for children, who are more likely to catch and spread it. This can lead to time off school and transmission to vulnerable family members, including babies, the elderly, and those with long-term health conditions.
