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Flu vaccine depleted in Moldova, COVID-19 vaccinations ramp up

Over 99% of this season’s flu vaccines have already been administered nationwide.

Vaccine distribution prioritized vulnerable individuals in each district. Meanwhile, authorities assure ample supplies of the COVID-19 vaccine remain.

As of the start of the cold season, only 10 flu cases have been reported, primarily in the capital, according to the National Public Health Agency.

Flu vaccines are now scarce in most Moldovan medical institutions, following the administration of over 99% of the available supply. The vaccination campaign began on September 25th, and stocks were depleted three weeks later. However, vulnerable populations were prioritized, according to Vladimir Guțu, director of the Soroca Public Health Center.

“We’ve exhausted our supply,” Guțu explained. “The vaccine was distributed to health centers as per the designated contingents. As the Public Health Center, we receive the vaccine, distribute it, and they administer it.”

Most vaccinations occurred in September and October, the optimal period for developing flu antibodies, says Svetlana Cealan, Deputy Head of the Soroca Health Center. Currently, the public is seeking COVID-19 vaccines.

“It’s not the right season for flu vaccines now,” Cealan clarified. “They’re administered before the flu season to allow for antibody development. At this point, it’s no longer effective. We receive the flu vaccine centrally. The COVID-19 vaccine, specifically Pfizer, is in stock and available to the public.”

Individuals who received the flu vaccine emphasized its effectiveness:

“I get vaccinated every year. It’s a wise choice to protect ourselves from viruses. We trust our doctors’ advice.”

“I’ve been vaccinated annually since 2005. It’s crucial, especially as we age. I’ve learned that neglecting health has consequences.”

“Both my husband and I, both over 60, get vaccinated yearly.”

“I’m in a risk group, so I get vaccinated every year.”

Health Centers in Soroca district received 5,000 vaccine doses, sufficient for the local population. The National Public Health Agency procured 200,000 flu vaccine doses from the Netherlands, valued at approximately 17 million lei. These doses were allocated to healthcare workers and high-risk groups.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

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