Israeli Health Funds Launch Winter Flu Vaccination Campaign Amid Supply Delays

Israel's four national health maintenance organizations (HMOs) have announced the commencement of their winter flu vaccination campaign for the 2026-2027 season. Shipments of the vaccines are expected to arrive at clinics gradually throughout September and October. Due to a global delay in vaccine production stemming from composition updates, initial vaccinations will be administered at central clinics and designated sites, with broader distribution to all clinics nationwide to follow.

The HMOs have ordered hundreds of thousands of doses, including injectable vaccines, nasal spray vaccines for individuals aged two to 49, and high-dose vaccines for those 65 and older. Vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and above, with particular emphasis on at-risk populations, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and children.

Clalit, the largest HMO, will begin its vaccination drive next week upon receiving its first shipment. Last winter, Clalit administered approximately 980,000 flu shots. Ronen Needleman, Clalit's Deputy Director General of Community Division, stated that the organization's extensive network and experienced staff will allow for flexible and rapid expansion of services based on demand and vaccine arrival. Clalit experts are also warning of severe flu complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization, and highlighting research suggesting flu can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Leumit has received its first shipment, with vaccines to be distributed by the Sukkot holiday. Hagar Wecksler, Director of Nursing at Leumit, advised booking appointments in advance due to the gradual arrival of vaccines and stressed that flu is not a mild illness. Dr. David Shesha, an infectious disease specialist at Leumit, noted a higher incidence of severe illness among children this season, urging parental awareness.

Maccabi, which vaccinated around 560,000 members last winter, began distributing vaccines to its nursing clinics on Thursday. Tami Alkalai, Maccabi's Chief Nurse, encouraged the public, especially at-risk groups, to get vaccinated, emphasizing its safety, efficacy, and life-saving potential.