We have been advised by the vaccine manufacturer of an unexpected delay affecting part of the UK’s seasonal flu vaccine supply for 2026.
The delay affects the vaccine normally used for many workplace flu vaccination clinics. However, we now have clinic dates available from mid-November and can also offer an alternative vaccine for employers looking to hold their clinic in October.
Flu vaccination vouchers are unaffected and will operate as normal.
What Has Caused the Delay?
The manufacturer has explained that vaccine production has been affected by two external factors:
- Three changes to the vaccine strain composition compared with last year
- The later identification of the B strain candidate, which delayed the reference strain being sent to manufacturers
These factors have created an expected delay of approximately six to eight weeks from the original delivery schedule. This is an industry-wide supply issue and is outside Doctorcall’s control.
We have been advised that our vaccine order will be delivered in full. Once it arrives, we will fulfil the supply allocated to our clients.
What Does This Mean for On-Site Workplace Clinics?
Employers planning an on-site clinic currently have three main options.
1. Hold the Clinic from Mid-November
We now have clinic dates available from mid-November 2026. Clients with an existing booking can speak to our team about moving their clinic to an available date, and new clients are welcome to request a quote.
Although this may be later than some employers originally planned, vaccination can still provide valuable protection during the flu season. Existing booked clients moving their clinic will not be affected by any change to the costs already agreed.
2. Consider an Alternative Vaccine for an October Clinic
We can also offer an alternative vaccine for employers looking to hold their workplace flu clinic in October. Employers interested in this option can speak to our team about the available dates and arrangements.
For clients with an existing quote or booking, this option would carry an additional charge of £15 per vaccine.
3. Switch to Flu Vaccination Vouchers
Employers can choose to provide employees with flu vaccination vouchers instead of holding an on-site clinic.
Doctorcall vouchers can be redeemed through a network of approximately 3,000 participating pharmacies across the UK. Prices start from £9.95 per voucher, depending on the voucher type and quantity purchased.
The service is fully self-managed, allowing employers to purchase and distribute vouchers digitally. Employees can then use our Pharmacy Finder to locate a participating pharmacy.
Flu vaccination vouchers are unaffected by the current workplace vaccine supply delay.
Find Out More About Flu Vaccination Vouchers
Information for Clients with Clinics Already Booked
We fully understand the disruption that changing an allocated clinic date may cause. Your business is extremely important to us, and our team is ready to review the available options with you.
Clients can discuss moving their clinic to an available date from mid-November or holding an earlier clinic in October using the alternative vaccine.
We recommend booking a review meeting as soon as possible so that we can understand your organisation’s needs and identify the most practical solution.
Information for Organisations Considering a Clinic
If you are currently considering a workplace flu vaccination clinic, we have dates available from mid-November.
You can also ask about the alternative vaccine available for clinics in October, or choose flu vaccination vouchers for employees who would prefer to visit a local participating pharmacy.
Our team can talk you through the options and help you choose the best approach for your organisation.
Information for Flu Voucher Clients
Flu vaccination vouchers are unaffected by the current supply delay and will operate as normal for the 2026 season.
Employees can redeem their vouchers through our network of approximately 3,000 participating pharmacies across the UK.
Our Pharmacy Finder is updated regularly so employees can find participating locations. Pharmacy stock and appointment availability can vary by location.
Supporting Employers Through the 2026 Flu Season
We recognise how important flu vaccination planning is for employers and their teams. Although the delay is beyond our control, we are working closely with our suppliers to provide practical alternatives and minimise disruption.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and greatly value the trust our clients have placed in Doctorcall.
– Doctorcall Flu Vaccination Team