Osakidetza has recorded more than 219,287 appointments since the start of the 2026-2027 flu vaccination campaign. The campaign began on September 28th, targeting children aged 6 months to 5 years and residents, and continues for other recommended groups.
The Department of Health and Osakidetza encourage those who have not yet done so to book an appointment or visit the 'txertogunes', emphasizing that the vaccine is the most effective tool to prevent flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and deaths. As in previous years, alongside the flu vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine is also offered to at-risk populations.
This season, Primary Care has recorded 497 flu cases and 1,516 COVID-19 cases. Hospital admissions include 71 individuals for flu (2 requiring ICU) and 51 for COVID-19 (3 requiring ICU).
The Department of Health and Osakidetza are sending a special message to individuals over 60 years old, those with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, COPD, or heart conditions), pregnant women, and children aged 6 months to 5 years, who face a higher risk of complications. They are advised to schedule an appointment at their health center or, from October 19th, at the designated 'txertogunes' in each territory.
In addition to the flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for specific groups: individuals over 70 years old, those with certain medical conditions or vulnerabilities, pregnant women, healthcare and social care professionals, and household members or caregivers of at-risk individuals. Both vaccines can be administered concurrently when indicated.
Vaccination also protects those around us. Therefore, caregivers and household members of vulnerable individuals, staff at nursery schools, and healthcare and social care professionals are encouraged to get vaccinated, safeguarding their own health, that of the people they care for, and the healthcare system's capacity during peak respiratory virus seasons.
Children aged 6 months to 5 years are a priority group due to their risk of complications and their role in virus transmission. Vaccination for this group began on September 28th, and from October 19th, they can be vaccinated without an appointment at any of the 'txertogunes' in Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa.
Those belonging to the target population can book appointments now; others can do so from November 2nd. Appointments can be made via the Osakidetza website, by calling their health center, or at 900 20 30 50. From October 19th to November 1st, the general public can receive vaccinations at the 'txertogunes' without needing an appointment.
The 'txertogunes' will operate from October 19th to November 1st across Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa. They will serve everyone aged 6 months and older, including children, without requiring appointments. Individuals can choose between scheduled appointments at their health center or direct visits to these points. Recommended vaccines will be administered based on age and condition, including the COVID-19 vaccine if indicated.
Alongside vaccination, Osakidetza reminds the public of the importance of hand hygiene, ventilating enclosed spaces, avoiding work or school with symptoms, and wearing masks when necessary to protect others and reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses.
