Get vaccinated before infections start to climb. That is the appeal from Ausl Romagna, which has released an update on its flu vaccination campaign launched on October 12: as of November 9, 135,506 doses had been administered, nearly 98,000 of them to people over 65.
The number of vaccinations is in line with the same period in 2025. However, the health authority notes that the goal of vaccinating at least two out of every three elderly people, as well as those with one or more chronic conditions, remains out of reach for now.
Public health officials explain: “The spread of the virus has not yet accelerated, leaving time to get protected before cases rise.
Putting it off is not worth it: it takes about two weeks after the injection to achieve maximum protective effectiveness, while the epidemic peak is expected later on. Typically, infections begin to increase between late November and December, reaching their height during the Christmas holiday period.
Getting vaccinated now means being ready by the time the virus is circulating more widely, protecting both yourself and the most vulnerable.”
The campaign is aimed above all at reducing severe cases of flu, hospitalizations and mortality. Protection is especially important for the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and those living with vulnerable individuals. Vaccination is also recommended for pregnant women and new mothers, healthcare workers, and staff in public services of key collective interest.
Those aged 60 and over, and people with chronic conditions, can contact their family doctor or book an appointment through the Cup booking system at Public Hygiene Service clinics. All adults entitled to free vaccination can also receive it at pharmacies.
For pregnant women and those in the postpartum period, access to Public Hygiene clinics across Romagna is open without a Cup booking or referral, during the opening hours set by the health authority.
Free vaccination is also available for healthy children aged 6 months to 6 years, who can be vaccinated by participating pediatricians or through the Community Pediatrics service.
During the flu vaccination appointment, patients are also offered the Covid vaccine. As the statement points out, “Both vaccinations can be given during the same visit.”
The free and proactive offer of the pneumococcal vaccine also continues for people turning 65 and for those in at-risk categories entitled to it regardless of age. This vaccine, too, can be administered in the same session as the flu and Covid shots.
