Doctors Recommend Flu Vaccination Before Virus Circulation Intensifies

The National Society of Family Medicine (SNMF) urges the public to contact their family doctors for flu vaccination before the circulation of the influenza virus intensifies. During the 2025-2026 season, only 6.9% of Romania's population received the flu vaccine-according to data presented by the organization-a level far below the 75% target recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The SNMF advises that vaccination should be scheduled in advance, as protection does not take effect immediately after administration but rather after approximately two weeks. "The flu doesn't wait. Neither should we. With this message, the National Society of Family Medicine (SNMF) issues an appeal today to the public-children and adults, young and old (over 65), healthy individuals and those with chronic conditions: contact your family doctor in the coming days and schedule an appointment for the flu vaccine before the virus begins to circulate widely in the community," the institution stated. SNMF President Dr. Dina Mergeani emphasizes that people should not wait for the first cases to appear or for an epidemic to be declared before considering vaccination. "The flu is not just a simple cold; it can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death, especially among vulnerable individuals," she stated, adding that vaccines are available in pharmacies and family doctors can recommend the right option for each patient.

• Children play a key role in limiting the spread of the flu

Family doctors are also highlighting the role children play in the transmission of the influenza virus. According to the SNMF, vaccinating children helps both to protect them and to reduce the risk of transmission within families and the wider community.

"When we vaccinate a child, we aren't just protecting them; we are protecting the entire family and curbing the virus's circulation in the community. And when we also vaccinate adults, the elderly, and patients with chronic conditions, we collectively build a shield that keeps the flu at bay. Every vaccinated person counts," stated Dr. Răzvan Miftode, SNMF Vice President and coordinator of the organization's Professional-Scientific Department.

• Vaccination rate far below the recommended target

According to data presented by the SNMF, 1,309,626 people in Romania received the flu vaccine during the 2025-2026 flu season, representing 6.9% of the population. The organization compares this figure to the 75% target recommended by the WHO for effective community protection. Associate Professor Dr. Gindrovel Dumitra, SNMF Vice President and coordinator of the organization's Vaccinology Group, maintains that low vaccination levels leave vulnerable individuals more exposed to flu-related risks. He notes that flu vaccination must be repeated annually because influenza viruses mutate, and the vaccine's composition is updated to target the strains expected to circulate during that specific season. "Each vaccinated person protects themselves and, effectively, protects those around them as well," stated the SNMF representative. The organization recommends that individuals wishing to protect themselves during the flu season contact their family doctor as soon as possible for a consultation and advice regarding vaccination.

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