Cyprus has received 60,000 flu vaccines. Priority is given to those over 60.

The Cypriot Ministry of Health has received the first 60,000 doses of influenza vaccines. They are expected to be distributed in the coming days. Vaccinations will begin with individuals over 60 years of age and adults at particular risk of severe disease.

You should schedule your vaccination appointment with your personal physician at GeSY. COVID-19 vaccines are also now available at ministry vaccination centers. According to the ministry, both vaccines can be administered during a single visit.

Flu vaccinations in Cyprus: who will be first?

The first shipment includes 60,000 doses intended for people over 60. As announced by Elisavet Constantinou, Acting Director General of the Ministry of Health, preparations for the start of the vaccination season have already been completed.

The Ministry of Health, the Health Insurance Organization managing GeSY and the state health services organization OKYpY are involved in the organization.

Priority will be given to older residents and adults in high-risk groups. According to reports, vaccinations for children as part of this year's campaign have not yet begun.

The ministry's official plan calls for flu vaccinations to begin in the first ten days of October. The availability of a specific date will depend on the delivery of vaccines to facilities and the organization of office work.

How to make an appointment for vaccination?

People using GeSY should contact their personal physician. Doctors are the ones who manage the registration and schedule vaccine administrations.

Some practices are contacting patients in the first phase of the program themselves. However, if such a message or call is not received, the ministry encourages patients to seek medical attention themselves.

During the call, it's worth asking about vaccine availability and the next available date. Those interested in receiving both the flu and COVID-19 vaccinations should also determine which clinic offers both vaccines.

The Ministry indicates mid-October and November

Elisavet Constantinou indicated mid-October and November as the most favorable period for influenza vaccination in Cypriot conditions.

She explained that this deadline is intended to maintain protection also in the later months of the season, until March, when the flu is still circulating among residents.

The start of distribution in early October allows for early planning of appointments. The specific date for administration should be agreed upon with a physician, who will take into account the patient's health situation.

COVID-19 vaccines are also available

COVID-19 vaccines are now available at Ministry of Health vaccination centers. The Ministry reminds people that they can be administered on the same day as the flu vaccine.

However, interest in COVID-19 vaccinations remains low. According to data cited by Constantinou, approximately 4,000 doses were administered last season.

The Ministry recommends vaccination primarily for individuals at particular risk of severe infection. It also recommends vaccination for healthcare workers and those caring for very young children or residents in at-risk groups.

The most important step for those interested in getting vaccinated against the flu is to contact their doctor. This will allow them to confirm the vaccine's availability and schedule an appointment once it begins.

Sources: Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus, Phileleftheros.