Flu vaccine now available nationwide: 'Immunization is free and can save lives'
The Republic of Moldova has launched its flu vaccination campaign following the arrival of 240,000 doses of the vaccine last week. This campaign particularly targets individuals at high risk of illness, including pregnant women, people with pre-existing health conditions, and employees in high-risk sectors. The vaccine has been distributed to various institutions, and health specialists are encouraging the population to get vaccinated, especially since the first cases of seasonal flu were confirmed in Chișinău.
Ludmila Rîmbu, the Head of the Family Medicine Department No. 5 in Chisinau, was invited to the "Public Space" show on Radio Moldova and confirmed that the number of respiratory infections is increasing. Even if it is not an alarming increase, the population should take care of their own health and administer the flu vaccine on time.
"It is time to start now so that the population can develop immunity", the doctor emphasized.
The "Influvac Tetra" vaccine, produced in Europe, offers protection against four types of influenza viruses, in accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization for the 2025–2026 season.
"We count on satisfactory vaccination, to have a healthier society, to reduce cases of illness and complications that may develop", Ludmila Rîmbu also said, emphasizing that "investment in health is the best investment".
The flu vaccine has reached medical institutions in all districts, with over 7,700 doses administered so far. The head of the Directorate for Epidemiological Surveillance of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases within the National Public Health Agency, Nicolae Furtună, stated that this year 40 thousand more doses were purchased than in the previous flu season.
"We have had requests from the population. There are aware people, those who have found it beneficial to get vaccinated, especially those with diabetes—they come first and get vaccinated. This year's batch of vaccine is a little cheaper and the National Health Insurance Company has contracted a larger quantity", said Nicolae Furtună, on the show "Spațiul Public".
Priority in vaccination offices is given to pregnant women, employees at high risk of illness—medical staff, border police, customs officers, and employees of residential institutions. People with chronic diseases, who may develop severe complications if infected with the flu, are also encouraged to get vaccinated. Children can also be immunized starting at the age of six months, including those suffering from comorbidities.
“People who get vaccinated today, in three weeks will have immunity capable of fighting influenza viruses”, said the head of the National Public Health Agency.
Nicolae Furtună emphasizes that annually immunization saves approximately 3 million lives worldwide. In the Republic of Moldova, anti-influenza serum is administered free of charge, upon the recommendation of a family doctor. People who want to get vaccinated can do so while supplies last.
The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency recommend simultaneous vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 to ensure protection against both infections characteristic of the cold season.
