Israel Launches Annual Flu Vaccination Campaign With Multiple Vaccine Options

Israel's healthcare providers have begun administering flu vaccinations, offering various options including standard injections, nasal sprays, and a high-dose vaccine for individuals over 65. Clalit, the country's largest health fund, has ordered over one million doses, with deliveries expected throughout September and October, including 25,000 nasal spray doses. Other major health funds, Maccabi, Meuhedet, and Leumit, have also stocked up and started vaccinating patients.

The standard injectable vaccine is inactivated and suitable for most individuals aged six months and older, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions. The nasal spray vaccine, containing a live attenuated virus, is for ages 2 to 49 but is contraindicated for pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and those with certain medical conditions. Professor Nadav Davidovich, director of the Center for Health Innovation Research at Bar-Ilan University, emphasized that vaccine choice depends on age, health, and individual patient characteristics.

A high-dose Fluzone vaccine, containing more antigen, is available for those over 65 to elicit a stronger immune response. A study of nearly 32,000 individuals over 65 showed this vaccine to be 24% more effective than the standard dose. Experts recommend considering this option if available and medically appropriate.

Immunity typically develops about two weeks after vaccination, highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated before flu season peaks. The vaccine composition is updated annually based on global flu strain surveillance. While experts anticipate more contagious strains this year, their aggressiveness remains uncertain. The vaccine's effectiveness, generally ranging from 40% to 60% in seasons with good strain matching, can vary based on viral circulation, patient age, and health. Even with partial strain matching, the vaccine can protect against other variants and reduce the risk of severe illness.

Contrary to a common misconception, flu vaccines do not cause the flu. The injectable vaccine uses inactivated viruses or components, while the nasal spray uses weakened viruses. Mild, short-lived side effects like soreness at the injection site or slight fatigue can occur, sometimes mistaken for the flu. Illness shortly before or after vaccination can also create a false impression that the vaccine caused the illness.

Influenza is a serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and death, particularly for at-risk groups like the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions. Clalit vaccinated over 980,000 patients in 2025 and aims to surpass that this year. While adult vaccination rates exceed 55% and childhood rates are over 30%, experts note that fear and misinformation contribute to lower vaccination rates among children. The article also states that flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered simultaneously, with potential for mild, transient side effects. Annual vaccination is recommended for all eligible individuals, including children from six months old, unless medically contraindicated.