In October, many people receive an invitation for the flu shot. The shot is intended for people at extra risk of becoming seriously ill from the flu, such as those aged 60 and over or with certain medical conditions. They can get the flu shot from their general practitioner or the doctor at their institution.
For most people, the flu is mild, but for the elderly and those with vulnerable health, the virus can have serious consequences. The flu shot offers the best protection: those who get vaccinated have an average of 40% less chance of ending up in the hospital due to the flu. The shot also reduces the chance of infecting others. If you do get the flu after vaccination, the illness usually proceeds more mildly.
Flu shot if you are pregnant
Newborn babies can also become seriously ill from the flu. Therefore, anyone who is 22 weeks or longer pregnant between October 15, 2025, and March 1, 2026, can get the flu shot. This protects both your baby and yourself from the flu.
The midwife or gynecologist will tell you about this vaccination and can answer your questions. If you are pregnant, make an appointment for the flu shot at the consultation office. This can be done at the same time as the 22-week whooping cough shot (external link). It is safe to receive both vaccinations at the same time.
Pneumococcal shot
If you were born in 1965 or earlier, you will also receive an invitation from your general or institutional doctor for a pneumococcal shot this fall. This shot protects against diseases caused by pneumococci, such as pneumonia. You can receive this shot at the same time as the flu shot.
