All secondary school students will be offered the FLU vaccine starting in September.
The government has confirmed that more than 3million 11-16-year-olds will receive a nasal spray in England.
was announced in early 2017 as a rollout for people over 65, those at clinical risk and pregnant women.
Ministers claim that expanding the program to include students from Years 7 to 11 would provide an additional layer of protection for those who are more vulnerable.
Health Minister Maria Caulfield stated: “By expanding the offer of influenza vaccination to all secondary-school pupils this winter, millions of young people will receive extra protection.”
This will reduce the risk that the virus can be transmitted to vulnerable groups such as the elderly. It will also lead to a reduction in hospitalisations, and a freeing of bed capacity throughout the NHS.
The flu vaccine is available to all students.
Last year, experts were concerned about a possible flu outbreak after the Covid Lockdown. They offered flu vaccines to secondary school students as a temporary measure.
A record number of 20million jabs was given out to 33million people, with The Sun’s Do The Double Campaign encouraging people who are eligible to come forward.
Experts blame previous locks on lowering immunity.
Australia, which is usually used to predict trends, has seen a surge in cases.
All children who were two or three years old on August 31, and those in primary school, will also be eligible to receive a shot starting September 1.
Steve Russell, NHS director for vaccinations and screening, said: “Last Winter we saw how quickly influenza can spread in communities.
“I’m happy to see that the offer of flu vaccination is being extended to secondary students in the autumn term.
The vaccine is a vital tool in protecting against the flu, which can have nasty symptoms.
“I urge parents and young people to join the millions who are vaccinated every year.
It’s easy, quick and available in Schools. There’s no need to wait when you get the offer.
Dr Mary Ramsay is the head of immunisation for the UK Health Security Agency. She said that the flu vaccine provides the best protection from the virus.
Last year, we saw some teens hospitalised for flu.
The expansion of the flu vaccination to secondary-school students will reduce the spread of the virus, protect their family members and ease the burden on NHS.
Nick Gibb, the Schools Minister said: “After the disruption caused by pandemic it is important that children can attend school as often as possible.
The announcement today will protect not only the health of children but also their education.