Flu jabs for over-60s begin in early October, doctors place first orders
Cyprus starts its 2026-2027 flu vaccination campaign with people aged 60 and over, as personal doctors order the only vaccine currently available. Appointments are expected from the first ten days of October.
According to the source material, Cyprus is launching its seasonal flu vaccination drive for 2026-2027 with the Efluelda vaccine, which the Health Ministry has restricted to those aged 60 and above. Adult personal doctors were told by the Health Insurance Organisation that orders could be placed from 6 to 8 October, capped at 150 doses each.
Distribution is handled by a private contractor working for the ministry rather than the HIO, so start dates vary between practices depending on delivery times. Patients eligible for the jab should simply book with their personal doctor, who supplies and administers the dose through the General Health System at no cost.
The broader national plan covers flu, COVID-19 and RSV, with vaccines provided free, and priority going to vulnerable groups. A separate vaccine, Vaxigrip TIV, for those aged six months and over will be announced later, with children and under-60s vaccinated once it becomes available.
What it means for residents
If you are 60 or older, you do not need to buy anything or queue at a pharmacy — your personal doctor handles the whole process, but availability may lag because deliveries are staggered. For families with young children or vulnerable relatives, the wait for the second vaccine is the main thing to watch.
- Over-60s: call your personal doctor now to book; do not order the vaccine yourself.
- Under-60s and children: no jab yet — wait for the ministry announcement on Vaxigrip TIV.
- High-risk patients: doctors decide who gets priority based on medical history, so be ready to explain your condition.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.
