Czechia faces influenza vaccine delays and COVID-19 supply reviews

influenza vaccination COVID-19 vaccines vaccine production delays Czech healthcare vaccine distribution

Vaccination schedules in the Czech Republic are facing adjustments due to production delays and historical usage patterns. The Czech Vaccinology Society has noted that influenza vaccine deliveries for the 2026/2027 season will arrive later than usual. While the primary vaccination window is typically October to November, the delay may shift the peak season into November and December. Distributor Avenier reported that while some supplies will arrive in late September, the full distribution will be spread across October and November.

Regarding COVID-19, the Czech Ministry of Health reported that since 2020, the country has paid approximately 19 billion CZK for vaccines, but utilized less than half of the 41 million doses delivered. For the upcoming season, 900,000 doses are available, with less than one-third used in the previous season. The Ministry is currently negotiating with manufacturers and health insurance companies to determine the future availability and reimbursement methods for the 2027/2028 season, focusing on cost-effectiveness and expected demand.