NHS England medical director for Covid immunisation Dr Jonathan Leach has warned parents of hoax Covid vaccine letters following reports of misinformation being sent to schools.
Three million UK children aged 12-15 are now eligible to receive a first jab as part of a programme, which began on September 20 and will be delivered primarily within schools.
Some headteachers have reportedly been targeted by letters that include a "consent checklist" under a false NHS logo, which they are asked to share with pupils.
After one parent shared a "checklist" on Twitter, Dr Leach replied: "Just to confirm that this is not a legitimate NHS form."
Earlier in September, the UK Health Security Agency said it was aware that some schools had received campaign letters and emails with "misinformation" about the vaccine programme, after ministers agreed to allow the age group a first jab.
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi on Monday noted vaccination was not mandatory and remained a personal choice, but was critical of those who have abused and threatened school staff.
"As Education Secretary, I want teachers and students to know that I will always stand up for them and tackle harassment head on, so teachers can do their vital jobs safely and children can get the education they deserve – regardless of choices made over vaccination," Mr Zahawi wrote in the Daily Telegraph.
