Austria updates national vaccination recommendations for 2026/27

Austria has updated its national vaccination recommendations for the 2026/27 season. The National Vaccination Panel has introduced several key changes, including a shift toward a seasonal strategy where booster shots are preferred in late summer or autumn to precede increased virus circulation.

COVID-19 vaccinations will remain free for children from six months of age, adolescents, and adults. For pertussis, the recommended booster interval for individuals under 60 has been extended to every ten years following primary immunization. For those over 60, the five-year interval remains. Additionally, the 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV21) has been included in the plan for specific indications starting from age two.

These updates come amid discussions regarding Austria's low vaccination rates compared to EU averages. Experts note that while Austria has high healthcare spending, only a small fraction is dedicated to prevention. Low influenza vaccination rates among those over 65 have contributed to higher mortality rates, prompting calls for more accessible vaccination methods, such as utilizing pharmacies to reduce logistical hurdles.