The flu vaccination campaign against seasonal influenza continues across the country, focusing on protecting the groups most at risk from severe forms of the disease and flu-related complications. As part of the campaign, 280 thousand doses of the trivalent vaccine have been distributed, which provides protection against three seasonal influenza viruses: A(H1N1), A(H3N2) and B of the Victoria lineage. Minister of Health and Social Welfare Klodiana Spahiu, accompanied by the Director of the Institute of Public Health (ISHP), Dorina Toçi, visited the Specialty Health Center No. 1 in Tirana, where she was briefed on the progress of the campaign, the organization of the vaccination process and the engagement of health structures across the country.
During the visit, Minister Spahiu called for greater participation of health personnel in vaccination, describing immunization as a professional responsibility that goes beyond individual protection. Vaccinating doctors, nurses and other health professionals is an essential measure for reducing the risk of virus transmission to patients, especially those with weakened immunity or serious health conditions, and for ensuring the continuity of health services during the flu season.
The minister placed particular emphasis on the need to increase vaccination coverage in hospital facilities, especially in tertiary hospitals and services with a high patient flow, where preventive measures are essential for the safety of healthcare.
The vaccination campaign, launched at the beginning of October, includes health personnel and population groups at increased risk, with priority given to the elderly and people with chronic diseases.
From the start of the seasonal flu vaccination campaign until 30 October 2026, 125,676 doses have been administered nationwide. According to preliminary data, around 75% of the doses have been administered to people over 65 years of age. Meanwhile, during this period, around 22% of health personnel have been vaccinated.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in cooperation with the Institute of Public Health and health structures across the country, continues its work to increase vaccination coverage and raise citizens’ awareness, with the aim of protecting the most at-risk groups, preventing complications and ensuring patient safety during the flu season.