Algeria Orders Vaccination of Elderly and Chronically Ill Against Seasonal Influenza

The Algerian Ministry of Health has issued a directive to vaccinate elderly individuals residing in collective institutions, known as "diars of mercy", against seasonal influenza. This move aims to protect vulnerable populations from the flu. The ministry has also instructed the vaccination of children suffering from chronic illnesses. A specific vaccination schedule has been set for these groups.

The directive, dated November 4, 2026, was sent to governors, health and population directors. It emphasizes the need to determine vaccine doses and injection sites based on a child's age and previous vaccination history. The vaccination campaign is part of the 2026-2027 season's flu prevention efforts. The ministry has also stressed the importance of coordinating with social activity directors and institution managers to organize the vaccination process.

Elderly people living in collective institutions are eligible for vaccination due to their high-risk status. The ministry has instructed medical and paramedical teams to travel to these institutions to administer vaccines. The vaccination process will be conducted according to specific guidelines outlined in a directive dated October 11, 2026. The ministry also requires that the vaccination process be covered by local media and that a report on its progress be submitted.

Children with chronic illnesses, such as heart and blood vessel diseases, lung diseases, and diabetes, are also eligible for vaccination. The ministry has specified that children between 6 months and 9 years old who have not previously been vaccinated will receive two doses of 0.5 ml each, with a four-week interval between doses. Children who have previously been vaccinated will receive a single dose of the same size.

For children above 9 years old, a single dose of 0.5 ml will be administered via intramuscular injection. Infants under 6 months will not be vaccinated directly, but their family members and close contacts will be vaccinated to minimize the risk of infection transmission. The ministry has also specified the injection site for children between 6 months and 1 year, which will be the front of the thigh.

The vaccination campaign aims to protect vulnerable populations from seasonal influenza. The ministry has emphasized the importance of following the specified guidelines for vaccination to ensure its effectiveness. By targeting high-risk groups, the ministry hopes to reduce the impact of the flu season.

The Algerian Ministry of Health's efforts to protect vulnerable populations from seasonal influenza are ongoing. The vaccination campaign is part of a broader strategy to prevent and control infectious diseases.

Key points

• The Algerian Ministry of Health has ordered the vaccination of elderly people living in collective institutions and children with chronic illnesses against seasonal influenza.