Flu and COVID-19: who should get vaccinated this autumn and when?

With the arrival of autumn and the increased circulation of respiratory viruses, vaccination is once again one of the main tools for prevention against flu and COVID-19, particularly among the most vulnerable people.

This October, Catalonia is launching its 2026-2027 autumn vaccination campaign, which will be rolled out gradually, initially prioritising groups at greater risk of developing complications.

This year, the recommendations for flu and COVID-19 vaccination have been established separately to better adapt the strategy to the epidemiological situation of each virus. However, people who are advised to have both vaccines can receive them at the same time.

When does vaccination begin?

The vaccination campaign will be rolled out gradually over the coming weeks:

• From 5 October, vaccination will begin for certain priority groups, including people living in care homes, people aged 80 and over, pregnant women, children aged between 6 months and 4 years, and healthcare and social care professionals.
• From 26 October, vaccination will be extended to everyone else for whom it is recommended. These groups include people over the age of 60, people in at-risk groups and essential services professionals.
• From 16 November, these groups will also be able to get vaccinated at primary care centres without an appointment.

Although autumn is the recommended time to get vaccinated, vaccines will continue to be available throughout the winter season.

Who should get vaccinated?

Vaccination is particularly recommended for people who are at greater risk of developing complications if they contract flu or COVID-19. The priority groups include older people, pregnant women, young children and people with certain health conditions that put them at greater risk.

Vaccination is also recommended for certain professionals, such as healthcare and social care staff, as well as people who may come into contact with particularly vulnerable individuals.

Why is it important to get vaccinated every year?

The viruses responsible for respiratory infections evolve, while previously acquired immunity can also decrease over time. For this reason, health authorities establish vaccination recommendations for each season.

Vaccination is an essential tool for reducing the risk of severe illness from flu and COVID-19 and, in particular, for protecting people who are at greater risk of developing complications.

As well as providing individual protection, vaccination helps prevent respiratory infections and protect the most vulnerable people around us.

How can I book an appointment?

People for whom vaccination is recommended can book an appointment through La Meva Salut, Cita Salut or directly through their local primary care centre (CAP).

If you are unsure whether flu or COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for you, you should consult a healthcare professional.

Preventing infections also means staying one step ahead of them. Vaccination remains one of the tools available to protect ourselves and, above all, to protect the most vulnerable people.