Norway urges eligible adults to check influenza, COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccines

The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) is reminding older adults and people with chronic conditions or other risk factors to check recommendations for influenza, COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccination. FHI says there are no changes from the previous season in who is recommended to receive these vaccines. People aged 65 or older who are eligible but have not received influenza or COVID-19 vaccination will receive reminders; reminders also apply to those offered pneumococcal vaccination at a reduced price through the adult vaccination programme. This year, that offer covers people born in 1960 or 1961.

Last season, 69% of people aged 65 or older received an influenza vaccine. COVID-19 vaccine coverage was 48% among people aged 75 or older, while 43% of the 1960 birth cohort received pneumococcal vaccination. FHI says the vaccines reduce the risk of severe disease and hospitalisation, though they may not prevent infection. Most eligible people can receive more than one of the vaccines at the same time.

This year’s influenza vaccine will reach municipalities later than usual because of production challenges, with deliveries planned from weeks 43 to 46. FHI says influenza epidemics usually begin in December and protection develops one to two weeks after vaccination. People are advised to check local municipal information, FHI or Helsenorge, or ask a healthcare professional about recommendations based on age, health and vaccination history.