Poland sees rising vaccination rates for flu and RSV

Vaccination rates in Poland are rising significantly, particularly among the elderly. Data from the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate indicates a notable increase in flu vaccinations, rising from 1.6 million in the 2023-2024 season to 2.3 million in the 2025-2026 season.

Other vaccinations are also seeing growth due to increased accessibility and reimbursement. RSV vaccinations rose from fewer than 72,000 people in the 2024-2025 season to 627,000 in the following period. Shingles vaccinations increased from 14,000 in 2024 to 177,000 in 2025, with 161,000 recorded by mid-September 2026.

Experts attribute this trend to improved education and availability. For citizens over 65, vaccines for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are currently free. Shingles vaccines are free for seniors with coexisting medical conditions. Additionally, the ability for pharmacists and nurses to administer vaccines has expanded access, with over 2,500 pharmacy points now offering vaccination services.

In preparation for the peak infection months between October and May, health experts recommend maintaining home medical kits containing fever reducers and electrolytes to manage symptoms of respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV.