Lombardy launches flu vaccine drive with free shots and a stadium Vax Day
Lombardy began its seasonal flu vaccination campaign, offering free shots to priority groups and hosting a Vax Day at San Siro for residents aged 12 and up.
Lombardy kicked off its annual influenza immunisation programme on Thursday, initially providing free vaccines to high-risk groups including pregnant women, children from six months to 17 years, seniors, fragile patients and workers for whom prophylaxis is advised, such as medical staff, police and school personnel. Welfare assessor Guido Bertolaso stressed the importance of vaccination for protecting the most vulnerable.
A dedicated Vax Day will take place at San Siro stadium on Saturday, with slots available only through the PrenotaSalute system for anyone aged 12 or older. Starting Thursday, family doctors and pediatricians will begin administering doses in their offices, while pharmacies will later join the effort for adults and teenagers. Vaccination centres will also become operational for children first and then for the broader population.
The regional plan seeks to boost flu-shot uptake among those over 65 to at least 75%, with 95% as the ideal target. In the previous campaign, Lombardy delivered roughly 2 million 270 thousand doses, achieving 52% coverage among seniors.
