Italy launches 2026-2027 seasonal influenza vaccination campaign

Health authorities across various Italian regions have officially launched the 2026-2027 influenza vaccination campaign. The initiative aims to increase coverage among high-risk groups, including individuals over 60, pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 6 years, and people with chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, or metabolic conditions.

In Lombardy, vaccination numbers have already shown a 5% increase compared to the previous year, with over 614,000 doses administered. The region has introduced new options, such as nasal spray vaccines for adolescents aged 12 to 18 and the ability for occupational physicians to administer vaccines at workplaces. In Puglia, the ASL Bari has prepared 273,000 doses, utilizing a network of 900 doctors and 50 vaccination centers.

Other regional rollouts include Lecce, which has allocated 155,000 doses, and Pescara, with 85,000 doses available. Vaccination access is being expanded through a capillary network of family doctors, pediatricians, public clinics, and participating pharmacies. In some areas, such as the province of Chieti, new Community Houses (Case della Comunità) are being integrated into the service to facilitate access for the most fragile citizens.