Ordem dos Farmacêuticos urges early flu and COVID-19 vaccination

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Helder Mota Filipe, the president of the Ordem dos Farmacêuticos, has issued an appeal for the population to receive flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible. He emphasized that early vaccination is crucial to ensure the immune system is prepared before the peak of infection periods.

This year's flu vaccination campaign expands free access to children aged 2 to 4. According to the Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS), these children can be vaccinated at National Health Service (SNS) units or authorized private and social sector hospitals and clinics. The SNS has procured approximately 2.3 million standard doses and 369,000 high-dose vaccines.

Eligible groups include healthcare professionals in various sectors, pregnant women, firefighters in contact with high-risk individuals, inmates, and people experiencing homelessness. High-dose vaccines are specifically planned for individuals aged 85 and older, as well as residents aged 60 and older in care homes and integrated continuous care networks.