Portugal is expanding its flu vaccination program this year, offering free flu shots for all children aged 6 to 23 months in the 2025-2026 autumn-winter campaign, which kicks off on September 23.
The decision comes after national health data showed that children in this age group register hospitalisation and intensive care rates similar to those of older adults.
The national health board (DGS) also recommends flu vaccination for children aged 2 to 4 to prevent severe illness. Vaccinations will be available at National Health Service (SNS) centres and community pharmacies.
High-dose flu vaccines will continue to be provided to people aged 85 and older, as well as residents of nursing homes, similar institutions, and the National Network of Integrated Continuous Care (RNCCI).
The program is also recommended for healthcare workers, pregnant women, students on clinical placements, firefighters transporting patients, caregivers for dependent people, pharmacy staff, the homeless, and prison populations. In pharmacies, flu and COVID-19 vaccines are advised for people aged 60 to 84 and health professionals.
In a statement, the health board says the campaign aims to “reduce individual susceptibility, lessen disease burden, and ease pressure on hospital services, including emergency care and admissions due to respiratory infections.”
The government will spend €7.6 million on the 2025-26 vaccination campaign, matching last year’s budget.
