I am writing to address inquiries that have surfaced among personnel in the Netherlands area regarding access to flu vaccinations for children. As per the current Defence policy outlined in JSP950 Vol7 Lft7-1-1 concerning the immunological protection of entitled individuals, it is stated that personnel assigned overseas are to adhere to the host nation’s immunisation schedules. This approach ensures that individuals receive the appropriate immunisations relevant to their residing area in alignment with public health guidance.
Regarding the Netherlands host nation immunisation requirements, it is important to note that flu vaccinations for children are not mandated. We acknowledge that certain national childcare providers in Brunssum are advocating for children to receive flu vaccinations. However, this recommendation is not founded on the prevailing public health policy.
Personal are at liberty to seek flu vaccinations for their children or themselves should they choose to do so, even if they do not meet the Netherlands flu criteria. Please be advised that any such vaccination will be at the individuals own expense, as they would be categorised as private care. This would include the vaccination and the clinical consultation to have the vaccination administered.
Local General Practitioners (GP’s) in Netherlands may offer flu vaccinations at their discretion, which would incur a personal charge to the patient. In instances where local GP’s do not have the vaccination in stock, they can provide private prescriptions that patients may take to local pharmacies to procure the vaccine. After obtaining the vaccine, patients can return to the GP , where a qualified clinician can administer it safely. Please approach your registered GP for further information as they will have their own regulated processes.
Furthermore, please be informed that the vaccine available locally may differ from the standard UK Nasal Flu vaccine, as they are typically administered via intramuscular injection.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Should you have any further questions or require additional clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to the DGP.
Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.