Clalit Launches 2026-2027 Flu Vaccination Campaign

Clalit Health Services is commencing its annual influenza vaccination campaign for the 2026-2027 winter season this week. Over one million injectable flu vaccines and 25,000 nasal spray vaccines for individuals aged two to 49 have been ordered.

The vaccines will arrive in Israel in multiple shipments throughout September and October. Initially, vaccinations will be administered at central clinics and designated vaccination sites. The campaign will expand to all Clalit clinics nationwide as more vaccines become available.

Ronen Nudelman, Deputy Director General of Clalit's Community Division, stated that the organization is prepared for a large-scale operation, noting that nearly one million patients were vaccinated last winter, with a 55% vaccination rate among those aged 65 and over. "Our goal is to enable the public to get vaccinated as early as possible to protect themselves and their families from the flu and its complications," he said.

Sefi Sobel Roitblatt, Head of Nursing at the Community Division, emphasized the flu vaccine's effectiveness in reducing illness, complications like pneumonia, and hospitalizations. She noted that the vaccine reduces the risk of contracting the flu by 40-60% and protects not only individuals but also their families and vulnerable populations.

Dr. Bat Sheva Guttman, an infectious disease specialist, highlighted that the flu can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, with the risk of myocardial infarction potentially increasing up to sixfold in the week following infection. She added that the flu vaccine may also help reduce the risk of cardiac events and strokes, particularly in older adults and those with pre-existing conditions.

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months and older, with particular emphasis on high-risk groups including individuals with chronic illnesses, the immunocompromised, the obese, children aged six months to five years, adults 50 and over (especially those 65+), pregnant women, and postpartum women up to three months after delivery, as well as residents of long-term care facilities.