Flu vaccinations for the 2026-2027 winter season will start with people aged 60 and over, as personal doctors in Cyprus place orders for the only vaccine available so far. The Health Ministry expects vaccinations with the Efluelda vaccine to begin in the first ten days of October, depending on availability.
The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) told adult personal doctors they could order Efluelda from 6 to 8 October inclusive, up to 150 doses per order, through a link it has sent them. Under Health Ministry instructions, the vaccine is given only to people aged 60 and over.
Over-60s
People aged 60 and over who want a seasonal flu jab should contact their personal doctor and book an appointment. They do not need to order or buy the vaccine themselves, as doses are supplied through personal doctors, who also vaccinate beneficiaries of the General Health System (GHS).
Distribution is being coordinated by a private company contracted by the Health Ministry, not by the HIO, so when each doctor can start vaccinating depends partly on when their doses arrive. Patients can contact their doctor to arrange an appointment.
Children and under-60s
Under the Health Ministry’s vaccination plan, everyone over six months old is eligible for a flu jab, but priority goes to vulnerable and high-risk groups, particularly people over 60.
The Vaxigrip TIV vaccine is intended for people aged six months and over, but it is not part of the current distribution phase. The ministry says a further announcement on its availability will follow. Once it is available, GHS beneficiaries will be vaccinated by their adult or children’s personal doctor by appointment.
Particular priority will be given to children over six months old with certain risk factors or chronic conditions, including asthma or other chronic lung disease, heart disease, immunosuppression, diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease and some neurological or neuromuscular conditions.
Vaccination is also recommended for all children aged over six months up to 17, and for people in close contact with babies under six months old or who care for people with underlying conditions at greater risk of complications from flu.
Priority for vulnerable groups
Vaccines will be distributed in stages, and personal doctors have been asked to prioritise patients according to the quantities they receive and each patient’s medical history.
This year’s plan covers protection against the three main respiratory viruses (seasonal flu, COVID-19 and RSV), with the Health Ministry providing the relevant vaccines and preparations free of charge.
