Rio de Janeiro opens citywide flu shots and expands Pneumo 20 for kids

The Rio de Janeiro municipal health department has made the seasonal influenza vaccine available free of charge to all residents aged six months and older. Vaccinations are being offered through the city’s primary‑care network, including Family Clinics, Municipal Health Centres and the Super Centre of Vaccination, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.

In addition, the Pneumo 20 vaccine – protecting against 20 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae – has been incorporated into the city’s child immunisation schedule. The health secretariat clarified that eligibility depends on each child’s age and previous pneumococcal vaccine history; not every child under four years will receive an additional dose. Parents are advised to consult their Family Health team for the correct dosing regimen.