Bulgaria to provide free nasal flu vaccine for children

Bulgaria will introduce the Fluenz nasal spray as a free option for children under 17 years of age as part of the National Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program for the 2026–2027 season. The immunization campaign is scheduled to run from October 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027.

In addition to the nasal spray, the program will provide the injectable vaccines Vaxigrip and Influvac. The National Health Insurance Fund finalized agreements with vaccine license holders on August 28, 2026, to ensure the availability of three different vaccines for children.

The Ministry of Health has stated it will monitor vaccine stocks on the Bulgarian market. In response to concerns raised by the Association of Patients Active in Healthcare (APAZ) regarding potential shortages, the Ministry indicated that it may discuss restricting exports if a real risk of domestic scarcity is identified.