National Influenza Vaccination Campaign Expands Across Brazil
A nationwide vaccination campaign against influenza (the flu) commenced this Saturday, March 28th, across Brazil’s North, Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast regions. The “Mobilization D-Day” initiative aims to increase vaccination coverage before the peak of virus contamination during the winter months, continuing through May 30th.
The vaccine, provided by the Unified Health System (SUS), protects against the main circulating viruses, including influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and influenza B. Protection is typically highest in the months immediately following vaccination and lasts, on average, six to twelve months, making annual immunization essential.
Priority Groups for Vaccination
The Ministry of Health has set a target to immunize at least 90% of priority groups in 2026. Individuals eligible for vaccination should seek out Basic Health Units (UBS). Priority groups include:
- Children aged 6 months to under 6 years
- Pregnant women
- Individuals aged 60 and over
- Postpartum women (up to 45 days after giving birth)
- Health and education workers
- Indigenous peoples
- Quilombolas
- Homeless individuals
- People with comorbidities or permanent disabilities
- Truck drivers
- Public transport workers
- Port and postal workers
- Security forces and armed forces professionals
- Individuals deprived of liberty
- Young people in socio-educational measures
Rising Influenza Incidence
Data from the InfoGripe Bulletin, from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), indicates an increase in influenza cases nationwide. The survey points to an unusual volume of notifications of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SRAG) for this time of year. Traditionally, influenza is most prevalent during autumn and winter.
Due to climatic and epidemiological differences between regions, the Ministry of Health emphasizes that the influenza virus circulates year-round. Experts highlight vaccination as the most effective way to prevent complications, reduce transmission, and avoid overburdening the healthcare system.
State-Level Mobilization
While the official start date is March 28th, states are authorized to start immunization earlier, based on vaccine dose delivery. As of recent reports:
- Ceará was the first state to initiate vaccination, receiving over 760,000 doses – approximately 21% of the target for an estimated population of 3.4 million people. The campaign began on March 20th for priority populations.
- Rio de Janeiro has distributed nearly 488,000 doses, with a total target population exceeding 7 million. Vaccination has already begun in some health units within the capital city.
- Federal District received an initial shipment of 80,000 doses, with the campaign launching on March 25th, aiming to reach 1.18 million people.
- Rio Grande do Sul received 360,000 doses on March 23rd, with the campaign scheduled to begin on March 28th, targeting over 5.2 million people in priority groups.
Influenza Vaccination in the National Immunization Calendar
Since 2025, influenza vaccination has been incorporated into the National Vaccination Calendar for children aged 6 months to 6 years, pregnant women, and the elderly. This inclusion allows these groups to receive vaccinations year-round at health centers.