The Health Ministry has announced its 2026 vaccination plan for respiratory viruses, recommending timely vaccination during the autumn and winter months against seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The three viruses share seasonal circulation and high transmissibility and can place additional pressure on the healthcare system. The ministry said prevention through vaccination and other public health measures remains a key strategy for reducing infections.
Seasonal flu vaccination
Everyone aged over six months is eligible for the seasonal flu vaccine, with priority given to vulnerable and high-risk groups, particularly people over 60.
Vaccinations with the Efluelda vaccine will begin during the first 10 days of October 2026 and will be available to people over 60, subject to availability. The Vaxigrip TIV vaccine will be available to people aged over six months, with the Health Ministry to issue a further announcement on its rollout.
For GHS beneficiaries, flu vaccinations will be administered by personal doctors following an appointment.
People who are not GHS beneficiaries, as well as GHS beneficiaries who wish to receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, can visit the Health Ministry’s Adult Vaccination Centres and Motherhood Protection and Child Welfare Centres, subject to the applicable operating arrangements and consent forms.
COVID-19 vaccination
Everyone aged over six months is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, with priority again given to vulnerable and high-risk groups, particularly people over 60.
People aged over 12 can receive the vaccine at the Health Ministry’s Adult Vaccination Centres on a walk-in basis, with the required consent form. For children aged 12 to 17, the form must be signed by both parents or guardians.
Children aged six months to 11 years can receive the vaccine at Motherhood Protection and Child Welfare Centres by appointment, with consent from both parents or guardians.
An identification document, such as an identity card, passport or ARC, must be presented when receiving the vaccines.
The COVID-19 vaccine can be administered four months after the previous vaccination. A minimum interval of three months is also required following a positive COVID-19 test.
People with severe immunosuppression may receive additional doses four to six months after their most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose, following written advice from their doctor.
RSV protection for older people and pregnant women
The Health Ministry is also prioritising protection against RSV for groups at higher risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications.
The RSV vaccine is available to people aged over 75 and those aged 60 to 74 with risk factors. Pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy are also a priority group, helping protect newborn babies.
The RSV vaccine is available throughout the year under the revised National Adult and Special Groups Vaccination Programme.
The ministry also provides nirsevimab (Beyfortus), a monoclonal antibody for RSV prevention, under the relevant national protocol.
Vaccination for vulnerable people
The ministry is urging relatives of vulnerable people, including those living in nursing homes, closed facilities or at home, to encourage them to receive seasonal flu and updated COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible.
Vaccinations for residents of nursing homes and closed facilities will be carried out by nursing staff in cooperation with residents’ personal doctors.
The home vaccination programme for COVID-19 and seasonal flu will also continue for bedridden patients through the State Health Services Organisation’s home nursing service.
Also read: RSV and flu prompt caution as doctors warn newborns are highly vulnerable
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