Cyprus outlines winter vaccination drive covering flu, COVID-19 and RSV
Health authorities have set out who gets which shot and when, with flu jabs starting in early October and free vaccines for priority groups under Gesy.
Cyprus's Health Insurance Organisation has briefed personal doctors on the Health Ministry's plan for this winter's flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations, as reported by Cyprus Mail. Shots and preventive RSV treatments are covered by a special 2026-27 programme and, like in past seasons, come at no cost to patients.
Flu jabs begin in the first ten days of October using Efluelda, reserved for those over 60 while stocks allow; a separate announcement will follow on Vaxigrip TIV, which is cleared from six months of age. Doctors will decide the order in which patients are seen, weighing medical history against the doses on hand.
Gesy members book through their personal doctor, while non-beneficiaries and those wanting flu and COVID-19 shots together can use Health Ministry vaccination centres. COVID-19 jabs are open without appointment to people over 12, with younger children seen by appointment at Maternity and Child Welfare Centres.
What it means for residents
Winter shots are again free, but the timetable rewards those who plan ahead: supplies arrive in stages, and your doctor controls the queue.
- Book early. Ask your personal doctor for a slot before October, especially if you are over 60 or in a risk group.
- Know your route. No appointment is needed for COVID-19 jabs if you are over 12, but bring ID; children under 12 need a booked visit and parental consent.
- Home visits continue. Bedridden patients can still arrange flu and COVID-19 shots at home through Okypy's nursing service, with applications filed electronically.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.