Flu vaccine supply arrives in Malta despite challenges abroad – Minister

by Gozo News · October 9, 2026

Thousands of flu vaccines arrived in Malta on Friday morning, despite challenges abroad with international supplies, Health Minister Ian Borg announced.

He said that according to information published by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), several European countries have faced challenges regarding the supply and availability of seasonal influenza vaccines due to constraints in manufacturing, the supply chain, and distribution.

He added that in Malta’s case, although the annual tender process for the supply of the influenza vaccine had been concluded, the winning company was unable to deliver the required quantities in time for the national vaccination programme to commence as scheduled.

The Health Minister said that together with the health authorities, the ”took immediate action to ensure the population remained protected; alternative procurement arrangements were explored and implemented to secure a sufficient supply of vaccine doses, despite the international supply difficulties.”

”Thanks to these measures, Malta succeeded in securing the vaccines required for the national influenza vaccination programme, thereby ensuring protection for vulnerable groups and the general population against the effects of seasonal flu,” he added.

It was explained that as in previous years, the vaccine will be offered at the most suitable time to maximise protection levels throughout the flu season. The campaign’s start date is determined based on continuous epidemiological monitoring and the expected progression of the virus, ensuring the population is protected when the risk of transmission is highest. ”Therefore, the national vaccination programme is scheduled to begin between late October and early November, in line with the practice followed in previous years.”

Further details regarding dates and vaccination locations will be announced as part of the national vaccination information campaign, which is set to launch in the coming weeks.

The Health Minister encouraged the public to receive recommended vaccines, including the flu vaccine, ”as vaccination remains the most effective and safe way to protect oneself, one’s family, and the community against diseases that can lead to serious complications.”