The flu vaccine will be offered free of charge to those over 65 as from October 1 this year, announced the Secretary of State for Health.
Leal da Costa said vaccination against seasonal flu, due to its “more aggressive nature”, will be free for those over 65 at health centres in the country. The measure is also expected to help prevent wastage of the vaccine in the country as has happened in previous years.
Those at risk and those on a low income will also benefit from free flu vaccination.
The vaccination campaign will begin on October 1 with a total of 1.1 million flu vaccines available for those over 65.
According to the Ministry of Health, an additional 1.7 million vaccines will be available for purchase at Portuguese chemists. The seasonal flu vaccine, costing under €10, is partly subsidised by the State on presentation of a doctor’s prescription.
