Israel Launches Annual Flu Vaccination Campaign Amid Gradual Vaccine Arrival

Israel's annual flu vaccination campaign for the 2026-2027 winter season has begun, with vaccines gradually arriving in clinics throughout September and October. Availability will vary by healthcare provider and specific clinic in the initial weeks. Maccabi is starting vaccinations on September 3, Clalit and Meuhedet expect to begin next week, and Leumit's campaign will commence after Rosh Hashanah. The Ministry of Health reported six child deaths from the flu last season, which saw a peak in flu-related hospitalizations, the highest since the 2010-2011 season, particularly among children under 18.

Maccabi began its campaign on September 3, with vaccines being distributed to nursing stations nationwide. Appointments can be made via their app for individuals aged six months and older, subject to vaccine availability. Last year, Maccabi administered approximately 560,000 flu shots, a 28% increase from the previous season, marking the highest vaccination rate since the COVID-19 pandemic began in winter 2020-2021. Vaccination rates were highest among those 65 and older (54%) and pregnant women (31%).

Clalit, the country's largest health fund, will start vaccinations next week, having ordered over one million injectable doses and around 25,000 nasal spray vaccines for individuals aged two to 49. Initial vaccinations will occur in central clinics and special sites, expanding later as more supplies arrive.

Meuhedet received its first vaccine shipment today and will begin vaccinations next week, ordering about 250,000 doses. This includes high-dose vaccines for those 65 and older and other at-risk groups, alongside standard inactivated vaccines and later, nasal spray versions for ages two to 49. Hagar Wexler, head of nursing at Meuhedet, noted a global delay in vaccine production and supply due to updated vaccine composition, affecting early availability in Israel. She advised early booking as wider availability is expected in October, emphasizing that flu is a serious illness and prompt vaccination is recommended once doses are available.

Leumit's campaign is set to start after Rosh Hashanah, with approximately 120,000 doses ordered. The gradual arrival of vaccines is attributed to a worldwide delay in production and distribution.